Multi-factor authentication (MFA), or two-factor authentication, is the use of a second factor of authentication following your password, such as a code received via text message or a prompt from an authentication app on your mobile device. Loss of your MFA method can cause a delay in the ability to access your account. Use these recommendations to avoid loss of account access.
Remember, if you use the Authenticator app, you must keep the app installed on your device after it has been configured.
Getting a New Phone or Phone Number?
If you are purchasing a new phone or changing your phone number, such as when going abroad, we recommend setting up a second MFA method temporarily prior to getting the new phone or new phone number.
For example, if you currently use the Authenticator app and get a new phone, the Authenticator app will not work on the new phone until it is configured. This will require that you authenticate using the app on the old device. If you will not be keeping your old device, you temporarily can add text messaging as a second method prior to receipt of your new phone.
If you currently use text messaging and are traveling abroad or changing your phone number while keeping the same phone, you can add the Authenticator app as another method of authentication.
See Change MFA Methods below.
Traveling Abroad?
If you’re traveling abroad, you can use the Authenticator app on your phone even if you will not have cellular service or wifi or plan to keep your device in airplane mode. If you only have text messaging configured as your MFA method, we recommend adding the Authenticator app as a secondary method that will work when you’re abroad. See Change MFA Methods below.
If you do not have a smart phone to use with the Authenticator app, please contact the Helpdesk at helpdesk@providence.edu or 401-865-HELP (4357) prior to going abroad. They can assist with access to your account.
Unexpected MFA Prompt?
If you receive a prompt for MFA either through the Authenticator app or via text message and it was not while you were personally attempting to access your own account, it is possible that your account has been compromised. Please decline the prompt in this case. It will lock your account from signing in, but you can contact the Helpdesk at helpdesk@providence.edu or 401-865-HELP (4357) for assistance unlocking your account and changing your password.
Change MFA Methods
Our recommended method of MFA is the Authenticator app as it is the most secure method available. Text messages can be spoofed. You can change your MFA methods or add an additional method at the page linked below. If you are adding a secondary method to prevent loss of account access when getting a new phone or new phone number, please be sure to remove that secondary method once the new device or number is ready.
