Sign-In Changes Are Coming. Here's What You Need to Know

What's happening? 

Microsoft is transitioning to stronger, phishing-resistant authentication methods for Microsoft 365 accounts. As part of this transition, all SIUE accounts must have a passkey registered by February 1, 2027.

A passkey provides a more secure way to sign in using your fingerprint, face recognition, device PIN, or a FIDO2 security key.

Starting September 1, 2026, Microsoft began prompting users who had not yet registered a passkey to set one up. The prompt can currently be dismissed, but it will appear again at a future sign-in.

On February 1, 2027, a passkey will be required for all SIUE accounts. Microsoft will also retire its built-in SMS and voice authentication service. After that date, text message and phone call codes will no longer work for SIUE authentication.

What should I do right now? 

Register a passkey before February 1, 2027.

If you already use Microsoft Authenticator, you should continue using it and add a passkey to your account. Microsoft Authenticator and passkeys work together to provide multiple secure ways to access your SIUE account.

If you currently use text messages or phone calls to authenticate, you should set up Microsoft Authenticator and register a passkey now rather than waiting until the deadline. Setup typically takes only a few minutes.

If you prefer not to use a personal mobile device, FIDO2 security keys are also supported and can be registered as a passkey.

Keep in mind that passkeys may use Bluetooth for some cross-device sign-in scenarios, which may not work on some public machines such as labs, kiosks, and podiums. Microsoft Authenticator remains useful when signing in from these devices.

If a phone number was your only alternate method for self-service password reset, the retirement affects your ability to reset your password on your own. See the E-ID - Changing your E-ID Password for what to do. 

What's coming next? 

Over the coming months, ITS will continue contacting users who have not yet registered a passkey and will provide guides, FAQs, and training resources to help everyone complete the transition before February 1, 2027.

We'll also offer hands-on help sessions and one-on-one appointments for anyone who would like assistance.

Where to learn more: 

Additional information and step-by-step guides will be published throughout the 2026-27 academic year at the SIUE Knowledge Base. The recommended starting point is [Link for document 163164 is unavailable at this time]. Watch for updates in the E Today, on the ITS website, and in the Knowledge Base. 

Questions? Contact the ITS Help Desk at help@siue.edu or (618) 650-5500.