Learn the answers to common questions about multi-factor authentication (MFA) at NCU, including sign-in prompts, changing phones, and what to do about requests you didn't make.
How MFA works at NCU
NCU uses Microsoft Authenticator for MFA. When you sign in, you approve a notification on your phone by entering the number shown on your screen. If you haven't set it up yet, see MFA: Setting Up Multi-factor Authentication (MFA).
Signing in
Can I get asked for MFA less often?
Yes. When you sign in on your own device, select Yes at the Stay signed in? prompt. You'll be asked less often on that device.
Select No on shared or public computers. You'll also be asked again after you change your password. For more ways to see fewer prompts, see Why Do I Keep Getting MFA Prompts?.
I'm not getting the notification.
Microsoft Authenticator needs an internet connection, but it doesn't need cell service. Try these in order:
- Connect your phone to Wi-Fi. The same network you're signing in on works fine.
- Open the Authenticator app directly. A waiting request often appears there even if the notification didn't.
- Check that notifications are turned on for Authenticator in your phone's settings.
Still nothing? Call the IT Service Desk at 612.343.4170.
It's asking me to enter a number.
That's expected. Your sign-in screen shows a two-digit number. Type that number into the Authenticator app to approve.
Only enter a number you can see on your own screen. If the app asks for a number and you aren't signing in, see I got an MFA request I didn't start.
Your phone
I'm getting a new phone.
Move Authenticator to the new phone before you reset, trade in, or give away the old one. You need the old phone to approve the change. Follow MFA: Setting Up Authenticator on a New Phone.
If your old phone is already gone, lost, or broken, call the IT Service Desk at 612.343.4170 to get your MFA reset.
I don't have a smartphone.
Call the IT Service Desk at 612.343.4170 to talk through your options.
Is the Authenticator app accessible?
Yes. Microsoft Authenticator works with your phone's screen reader (VoiceOver on iPhone, TalkBack on Android) and other built-in accessibility features.
Never share your password or MFA code
NCU IT will never ask for your password or an MFA code, and no one else at NCU needs them either. Your NCU account is yours alone: sharing it is against NCU's Acceptable Use of Information Technology policy and the terms of most services NCU uses, and you're responsible for anything done with your account.
Suspicious activity
I got an MFA request I didn't start.
Deny it. Someone else is trying to sign in with your password. Then:
Never approve a request to make it go away, even if it keeps repeating.
I see sign-ins I don't recognize.
Your recent sign-ins are listed at mysignins.microsoft.com under Recent activity. Locations are approximate, often your internet provider's location rather than yours.
If a sign-in still looks wrong, change your password and see Help! I Have Been Phished!.
Get help
Still need help? Contact the IT Service Desk:
- Call: 612.343.4170
- Visit: Miller Hall 226
- Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CT