FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions MFA

MFA Questions and Answers

Does MFA change the way I log into my computer/laptop/VDI?

Yes. AVD VDI, Canvas, and Outlook all require MFA.

 

Will I need to enter a code from my phone every time I log into email?

No. You can choose to sign into your email for up to 60 days (per location) before it prompts you to re-verify with a code. Also, you do not need to authenticate from on campus.

 

Will I need to use MFA to check email on my phone?

Yes. You will be prompted every 60 days to enter a code, even on your mobile phone.

 

What happens if I forget my mobile phone?

Contact itsupport@rivier.edu and we will assist you. You can also call the help desk at (603) 897-8631.

 

I don’t have a mobile phone or do not wish to use my personal mobile phone number.

Rivier IT can issue you a key fob that provides an authentication code much like the phone app. Contact us at itsupport@rivier.edu or call us at (603) 897-8631 during business hours.

 

Can I use a personal email address to verify myself?

No. Microsoft does not allow you to use an email address to verify yourself.

 

Is there an alternative to receiving a text message or a voice call?

Yes! We recommend using the Microsoft Authenticator app. Authenticator is a free app that can be found in the Apple App Store (iPhones) and the Google Play Store (Android phones). After configuring the app, you can verify by receiving a “push” notification on your screen. Simply press “Approve” on your phone’s screen and you are logged in! There are no codes to type and you don’t have to receive any text messages. IT can help you set it up, or you can set it up yourself by visiting this site: https://support.office.com/en-us/article/use-microsoft-authenticator-with-office-365-1412611f-ad8d-43ab-807c-7965e5155411. Microsoft Authenticator is free.

 

Can Rivier University access information stored on my phone if I install the Authenticator app or set up MFA text messaging?

No. Rivier University cannot monitor your phone usage, location history, or access your personal data.

 

I want to learn more about the Microsoft Authenticator app.

Microsoft Authenticator is a free app that can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. After configuring the app, you can verify by receiving a “push” notification on your screen. Simply press “Approve” on your phone’s screen and you are logged in! There are no codes to type and you don’t have to receive any text messages. IT can help you set it up, or you can set it up yourself by visiting this site: https://support.office.com/en-us/article/use-microsoft-authenticator-with-office-365-1412611f-ad8d-43ab-807c-7965e5155411

 

Does checking email on my phone change?

MFA does not support the iPhone built-in “Mail” app. iPhone users will need to download the Outlook mobile app. You will also want to remove your Rivier account from Mail by heading to Settings -> Accounts & Passwords, selecting your Rivier email, and clicking Delete Account. NOTE: Some iPhones users have reported that they can make email work in the built-in Mail app by deleting their Rivier account (Settings -> Accounts & Passwords) and re-adding it. Android phone users can continue using Outlook.

 

How do I log into shared mailboxes?

Nothing changes. You can still find your shared mailboxes in Outlook or open them through Outlook on the web.
Note: If you are using a separate username and password to log into a shared mailbox, please contact us right away!

 

Do I need to use or remember the app password?

Most users will never need to use an app password. You can safely ignore this if you see it when setting up MFA. The only known exception is if you are a Skype for Business user. Please contact IT if you have any questions about setting up Skype for Business after enabling MFA.