Dear USF Student,
USF is updating its requirements for multi-factor authentication (MFA) for business and academic applications for stronger security.
Starting October 30, 2026, text and phone call authentication methods will no longer work for USF accounts. If you are using those authentication methods, you will need to add a more secure one to your account, otherwise you risk getting locked out of important university resources, including email, Canvas, MyUSF, Microsoft 365, and other USF platforms.
If you need to add more secure MFA, we recommend that you use Microsoft Authenticator
with one-time code matching. Other options include:
- Phishing resistant MFA options, such as FIDO2 security keys or passkeys
- Third-party authentication applications (Google Authenticator, Aegis, Authy, etc.)
How do I enable Microsoft Authenticator?
- Download Microsoft Authenticator from your app store.
- Review your current sign-in methods here
- Select "Add sign-in method" and choose Microsoft Authenticator.
- When logging in to the USF system, follow the instructions on your screen to authenticate.
For a step-by-step guide on setting up Microsoft Authenticator for your USF account, please click here.
Why Is This Changing?
Text messages and phone calls have become increasingly vulnerable to scams and cyberattacks.
More secure authentication methods provide better protection for your personal information
and your USF account, and a faster and easier sign-in experience once set up.
Don't Wait Until the Last Minute
Updating your sign-in method now only takes a few minutes and can help you avoid being
locked out of important USF services later this semester.
Need Help?
The USF Information Technology team is ready to help.
- Chat: IT Chat Support
- Phone: 813-974-HELP (4357)
- Email: help@usf.edu
Thank you for helping keep USF's digital environment and your student information
secure.
USF Information Technology