Multifactor Authentication (MFA) - Updating When You Get a New Phone

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for updating your Multifactor Authentication (MFA) settings when you get a new phone. Learn how to maintain secure access to your SIUE account through different scenarios, whether you still have your old phone, kept the same phone number, or have completely new device and number.

Updating MFA When You Get a New Phone

When you get a new phone, you'll need to update your Multifactor Authentication (MFA) settings to maintain secure access to your SIUE account. Follow the instructions below based on your specific situation.

Scenario 1: I Have Both My Old and New Phones

If you still have access to your old phone with the Microsoft Authenticator app and want to set up MFA on your new phone:

  1. Access the MFA setup page at https://aka.ms/mfasetup
  2. Sign in with your SIUE email address and password
  3. Approve the MFA prompt on your old phone when prompted
  4. Once logged in, you'll see your current authentication methods. Select "Add Method"
  5. Choose "Authenticator app" and follow the on-screen instructions
  6. Install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your new phone if you haven't already
  7. Scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen with your new phone
  8. Approve the test notification to verify the setup is working
  9. Your new phone is now set up for MFA. You can keep both phones registered or remove the old one

Scenario 2: I Have a New Phone but Kept My Same Phone Number

If you have a new phone with the same phone number and previously set up text message verification:

  1. Access the MFA setup page at https://aka.ms/mfasetup
  2. Sign in with your SIUE email address and password
  3. When prompted for MFA, click "Use a different verification option"
  4. Select "Text" or "Call" to receive a verification code via your phone number
  5. Enter the verification code to complete the sign-in
  6. Once logged in, you can set up the Microsoft Authenticator app on your new phone
  7. Select "Add Method" and choose "Authenticator app"
  8. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup

Important: This method ONLY works if you previously set up text message authentication. If you only had the authenticator app on your old phone, follow Scenario 3 below.

Scenario 3: I Have a New Phone with a New Number and No Longer Have My Old Phone

If you have a completely new phone with a new number and no longer have access to your old phone:

  1. Contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance by:
    • Visiting in person at Lovejoy Library Room 0005
    • Calling (618) 650-5500
  2. We will verify your identity using alternate methods
  3. Once verified, we'll temporarily exempt your account from MFA requirements
  4. You'll then be able to log in and set up MFA on your new device

Best Practices for MFA Management

  • Set up multiple authentication methods when possible to avoid being locked out
  • Update your MFA methods proactively before getting rid of your old phone
  • Test your new setup before deactivating or resetting your old device

Need Additional Support?

If you have any questions or need assistance updating your MFA settings, please contact the ITS Help Desk:

This guide aims to provide useful information, but as technology changes, interfaces or steps might vary. Please use the Comment button to let us know if anything differs from your experience. Your feedback helps us keep this information accurate. Thank you!



Keywords:
phone, smartphone, smart-phone, new device, authenticate, authenticator, authentication, Microsoft, mfa, two-factor, two factor, 2 factor, authentication, transfer, migration, new phone, update, setup 
Doc ID:
124547
Owned by:
Jeff P. in Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Created:
2023-03-02
Updated:
2025-03-17
Sites:
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville