Multi-factor authentication | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

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Multi-factor authentication

Multifactor authentication (MFA) keeps the UniSC community safe by adding a second ‘factor’ to your username and password when you login. All UniSC students and staff are required to use MFA.

How to register

1. Download the Microsoft Authenticator app from your app store.

Note: The Microsoft Authenticator app does not read or interact with the data on your device, or send information back to UniSC.

2. Register your device to connect the app to your UniSC account

Follow the steps in this short video or User Guide.
Registration works best if you use a computer and mobile device.

DOWNLOAD USER GUIDE

We aim to provide resources in an accessible format. If you would like a document in a different format please contact Student Central.

 


Having trouble?

How do I register using just my mobile device?

Registration works best using a computer and your mobile device, but if you don’t have access to two devices, you can choose to use just your mobile device. You’ll need to know how to switch between applications. User guide available here.

I want to skip registration for now. What do I do?

Click the ‘You have xx days until this is required’ link to skip registration during your skip period. If you don’t see this link, it means you have passed your skip period and will need to register before you can proceed.

My countdown showed I still had a few days but I can't login without registering. What happened?

Your registration countdown starts from the day you first log in. In some cases, this may not align with when your account is enforced for MFA. Your MFA enforcement date will be listed in the email sent to you to announce you have been activated for MFA.

I'm getting a 'QR code timed out' message

Refresh your browser and try again.

I clicked Next but I'm not ready to set up. What do I do?

Close your browser window, access your application again, and select ‘You have xx days until this is required’ to skip registration for now. If you don't see this option, then you have passed your enforcement date and will need to register. Contact the IT Student Help Desk if this is an emergency.

I don't see my problem listed here?

If your issue is not listed here, you can find further troubleshooting tips in the Troubleshooting Guide.

Frequently asked questions

What will happen after I register?

When you access UniSC systems, you’ll occasionally need to verify your login attempt by responding to a prompt on your phone.

  1. Log into a UniSC system using your username and password.
  2. Tap the notification on your device.
  3. Enter the code you see on your screen.
  4. Tap “Yes it’s me”.

View the User Guide or video instructions for more information.

How much data does the app use?

The app uses less than 2kb data per prompt.

What if I'm in an area with low data connection?

If you need to use MFA when you're in a low-data area, you can use a One-Time Passcode (OTP) to pass the verification request. Review the User Guide or video instructions for more information.

What if I don't have a smart phone?

All UniSC students and staff must use MFA to access University systems, as it’s the only way to keep our data safe. If you don’t have, or can’t use, a smart phone, you can apply for an exception and we will work with you to provide an alternative.

What if I get a new phone?

You’ll need to register your new device with MFA by following these instructions. If you don’t have access to your old phone, contact IT Student Help Desk.

What if I don't have access to my phone when an MFA verification request appears?

If you are prompted for MFA when you don’t have access to your phone, you can contact the IT Student Help Desk to request a temporary access code.

How does MFA work?

MFA combines something you know (your login details) with something you have (your mobile device). This helps to make sure the person logging into the system is really you.

I don't see my question listed here?

If your question is not listed here, you can read more FAQs in our FAQ Guide.

Need help?

Contact the Student IT Help Desk
Get drop-in support via Zoom

Zoom sessions are open to all students. Check the MFA support timetable for times and to join a session (marked in yellow).

Call us

Tel: +61 7 5459 4455

During semester
Monday to Friday: 8.30am–6pm
Saturday and Sunday: 11am–2pm

Semester break
Monday to Friday: 11am–2pm

Visit us in person

Sunshine Coast: Visit our pop-up stands at the Library or Student Central. Check the MFA support timetable for locations and times (marked in blue).

Moreton Bay: First floor, building entrance (open until 5pm)

Fraser Coast: Information Technology counter, A Block

More pop-up stands will be scheduled as we roll MFA out to students at all campuses.