Update Your Authentication Method

Phone and Text Message Authentication Is Being Retired

Beginning February 1, 2027, the Phone and Alternate Phone authentication methods will no longer be supported for multi-factor authentication (MFA). If you currently receive a text message or phone call to verify your identity when signing in, you will need to register a new authentication method before this date.

Am I Affected?

You are affected if you:

Receive a text message (SMS) code when signing in.
Receive a phone call to verify your sign-in.
Have only Phone or Alternate Phone registered as your authentication method.

If you already use the Microsoft Authenticator app, Passkey in Microsoft Authenticator, or another supported authentication method, no action may be required.

Recommended Authentication Method

Harper College recommends using the Microsoft Authenticator app as your authentication method. Microsoft Authenticator allows you to securely approve sign-in requests from your mobile device and provides a more secure option than text messages or phone calls.

Secure push notifications for sign-in verification
Easy setup and use
Works from your smartphone or mobile device
Helps protect your account without relying on SMS or voice calls

How to Check Your Current Authentication Methods

Navigate to Microsoft Account Security Info page
Review the authentication methods listed under Sign-in methods.
If you only see Phone or Alternate Phone, add a new authentication method.

Add a New Authentication Method

Navigate to Microsoft Account Security Info page
Select Add sign-in method.

Choose Microsoft Authenticator as your new authentication method.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete setup. Detailed instructions can be found here - Setting up Multi-Factor Authentication with Microsoft: Harper College
Verify that a new method appears in your list of sign-in methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I do nothing?
You may be unable to complete MFA verification after February 1, 2027 and could experience difficulty accessing Harper College services.

I need help updating my MFA method.
Contact the Student Service Desk at 847.925.6866 or studentsd@harpercollege.edu