Microsoft is retiring text message and phone call verification for multi-factor authentication (MFA). Beginning February 1, 2027, text and phone codes will no longer work to sign in to your Utah Tech account. Switch to the free Microsoft Authenticator app now — it takes about 3 minutes.
The Basics
What is changing?
Microsoft is retiring text message and phone call verification for MFA. After February 1, 2027, text and phone codes will no longer work to sign in to Utah Tech accounts.
Does this affect me?
Only if your default sign-in method is a text or phone call. To check:
- Go to aka.ms/mysecurityinfo and sign in.
- Look at Default sign-in method.
- If it says Phone – text or Phone – call, you need to switch.
If you already use Microsoft Authenticator, another authenticator app, a passkey, or a security key, you're all set.
What should I switch to?
The free Microsoft Authenticator app is recommended for most people. See Setting Up Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication for step-by-step instructions.
Other supported options:
- Another authenticator app, such as Google Authenticator — see Use Google Authenticator for Utah Tech Authentication
- A FIDO2 security key — see Set Up a Security Key and Sign In with a Security Key
- A passkey (optional)
When do I need to switch?
Before February 1, 2027. We recommend switching now — especially students, so you aren't locked out at the start of spring semester.
Will IT remove the phone number from my account?
No. Utah Tech IT will not remove text or phone methods from your account. You just need to set up Microsoft Authenticator (or another supported option) and make it your default sign-in method before February 1, 2027.
Special Situations
I don't have a smartphone, or I don't want an app on my personal phone.
You can use a physical security key (FIDO2). See Set Up a Security Key. The Help Desk can recommend models. If none of these options work for you, contact the Help Desk.
- Students: If you don't have a smartphone, the IT Help Desk can provide you with a security key. Contact the Help Desk to request one.
- Faculty and staff: Security keys are purchased by you or your department. Any FIDO2 security key can be used as an alternative to Microsoft Authenticator. (example: Yubico Security Key)
Does Utah Tech pay for security keys?
- Students: The IT Help Desk can provide a security key to students who don't have a smartphone.
- Faculty and staff: No. Security keys are purchased by the individual or their department.
Will I still be able to reset my password by text?
Yes. Password reset by text at reset.utahtech.edu is a Utah Tech service and is not affected. This change applies only to the codes you use to sign in.
I'm getting a new phone. What do I do?
Set up Authenticator on your new phone before resetting or trading in the old one. If your old phone is already gone:
- Students: Reset your sign-in methods at reset.utahtech.edu, then set up Authenticator again.
- Faculty and staff: Contact the IT Help Desk to reset your sign-in methods in person or over Zoom.
I travel internationally or have poor cell service.
Authenticator can give you a sign-in code even without cell service — another good reason to switch.
Can I use passkeys?
Yes, passkeys are supported, but they're not required. Microsoft Authenticator is the recommended option for most people.
I got a sign-in request I didn't start. What should I do?
Deny the request, change your password right away, and contact the IT Help Desk.
I'm locked out. What should I do?
Call the IT Help Desk at 435-879-4357 or visit help.utahtech.edu. After verifying your identity, the Help Desk can issue a temporary code (valid for 8 hours) so you can sign in and set up a new method.
Need Help?
IT Help Desk: 435-879-4357 • help.utahtech.edu
