Multi-Factor Authentication

Lethbridge College introduced Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all employees on July 28, 2021. This account access update will take effect for students on June 1, 2022.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

MFA is a way to verify the identity of a person attempting to access a Lethbridge College account. This adds a level of security beyond just a username and password by requiring you to confirm your identity using the Microsoft Authenticator app, a SMS code, or a phone call.

It is likely that you have already experienced MFA as a requirement of other services you use such as your banking app, a health benefits website, online shopping retailers, email, and many more.

Why do we need this?

Institutions like Lethbridge College are high-value targets of global hackers. In 2020, it's estimated ransomware alone cost institutions and businesses $20 billion in ransom and downtime. MFA is a way to add a level of security to our systems. It's also a requirement of our organization's cyber-insurance policy.

What do I need to do?

1. Login to a Lethbridge College O365 app, such as Outlook or Self Service.

  • Have your personal mobile device handy, as it will be required during this registration process.

During your initial login, you will be prompted to provide more information in order to set up MFA. The window will look like this:

2. Click next.

3. On your smartphone, go to the Google Play (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS), and install the “Microsoft Authenticator” app.

4. Once the install is complete, open the Microsoft Authenticator app. 

5. Under the different sign-in options, select Scan QR code.

  • If prompted, allow camera access for the Microsoft Authenticator app. A camera screen will pop up.

Scan the QR code you see on screen.

  • NOTE: If your phone's camera cannot read the QR code, please select Can't scan image? on the computer screen, and enter the code and URL manually on the Authenticator app. Then, click Finish

6. Select next. A notification is sent to the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone to verify your account.

7. On your smartphone, approve the notification on your device, then select next.

8. On your computer, you will be directed back to the “Keep your account secure” page to set up a second authentication method. 

  • Enter your phone number, and select next.

9. You will receive a 6-digit text message on your phone.  Enter it on screen, and select next.

10. Review that both forms of authentication registration were successful, and select done.

You're all finished!  Please note that this registration process only needs to be done once.

If you require assistance or have any questions, please contact the ITS Help Desk, or reference this article by Microsoft.

  • Hours: Monday to Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

How do I get email on my mobile device?

If you access your email on a mobile device (smartphone or tablet), you may have to reconfigure the account, depending on how it is currently configured:

  • If you use the Outlook Mobile app, you can continue using this app, though you may be prompted for MFA from time to time when accessing your email from off campus.
  • If you use your device’s default mail client (either iOS or Android), or another mail app, either:
    • Switch to the Outlook Mobile app, or
    • Remove and re-configure your Lethbridge College email account on your device by:
      • In your account settings, remove your @lethbridgecollege.ca account settings
      • Reboot your device
      • Re-configure the account using the instructions for your type of device on the Accessing email page – you will be prompted for MFA as part of the setup.

You can find links to download the Outlook Mobile app on the Go mobile page.

What happens if I don't set up my authentication information?

You will continue to be prompted to do so until the process has been successfully completed.

After two weeks of ignoring the initial prompt, you will not be able to postpone MFA enrolment any further, and access to your account will be restricted until you set up MFA.

Will I need to authenticate my login every time?

No. If you are on campus, your username and password will suffice. There are other security systems at work while you're on campus.

You will be asked to authenticate when accessing your account from any device off campus, whether you are on a VPN (Virtual Private Network) or not. The frequency of the authentication requests will vary but everyone in the Lethbridge College community should expect to see authentication requests occasionally when working or studying off campus.

What should I do if I get a verification request I don't recognize?

When in doubt, call or email the help desk at 403-320-3333 or helpdesk@lethbridgecollege.ca.

Is my authentication contact information private?

Yes. The cell phone number and email address you enter is saved to private authentication fields that are accessible to you as part of your unique Office 365 identity. Some members of the Lethbridge College ITS team can also access this information in order to provide support.

If you have questions about the collection of personal information, please refer to the Website privacy statement.

Can I use the Microsoft Authenticator app?

Yes!  This is the recommended method of MFA registration.

You can find links to download the Microsoft Authenticator app on the Go mobile page.

 

NOTE: Some users have reported issues when accessing Self Service using the Microsoft Authenticator app. If this is applicable to you:

  • Open the Microsoft Authenticator app, select your Lethbridge College account, and choose "disable phone sign-in". 
    • This only changes how the app requests your approval for sign-in attempts, it does not restrict any functionality.
    • If you encounter any difficulties, please contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance.