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 set up MFA

2 device set-up - Mobile phone AND a PC or laptop
Please follow the instructions to the end to ensure successful registration.
1. Download the Microsoft Authenticator app from your app store.

Note: The Microsoft Authenticator app does not read, collect 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 view the user guide "Set up MFA"
Registration works best if you use a computer and mobile device.

1 device set-up - If you only have a mobile phone
PLEASE NOTE: Common mistakes in setting up MFA using a phone only: Please follow the instructions to the end. Please ensure you go back to the browser at the end and tap 'Done' to confirm MFA is activated.
1. Download the Microsoft Authenticator app from your app store.

Note: The Microsoft Authenticator app does not read, collect 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 view the user guide "Set up MFA"
Registration works best if you use a computer and mobile device.

VIEW 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?

I am locked out of my UniSC account because of MFA issues

If you can not access your UniSC account within business hours, the quickest way to contact IT client support is to call on+61 7 5459 4455

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

Semester break
Monday to Friday: 11am–2pm

Outside of these times, please fill in this simple form MFA AND ACCOUNT ACCESS SUPPORT form and one of our staff or student support teams will contact you as soon as possible.

NOTE: To help us find your UniSC account and resolve your query, please include your Student ID or UniSC email address and the name or course code for the course/program you are currently enrolled in.

Can I be excluded from using MFA completely?

No, MFA multifactor authentication is now compulsory for all UniSC accounts. However, we do have some options for those staff or students who, for example, don't have a mobile phone or have issues with accessibility.

If you can not currently register for MFA or are locked out of your UniSC account due to MFA issues, please fill in this simple MFA AND ACCOUNT ACCESS SUPPORT form, or contact the IT Client Services team. Tel: +61 7 5459 4455

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

Refresh your browser and try again.

I am an Alumni. Do I need to register for MFA to access my account?

Yes, all UniSC accounts are now secured by MFA. To access your account, please follow this user guide to install the Microsoft Authenticator app onto a mobile device or smartphone.

For technical support, please contact the IT Service Desk. Tel: +61 7 5459 4455

 

I don't see my problem listed here?

If your issue is not listed here, further FAQs and information can be found in the All FAQ Knowledge article.
If you are already experiencing difficulties with accessing your account or the FAQs, please contact the IT Service Desk. Tel: +61 7 5459 4455

Frequently asked questions

What if I get a new phone?

If you still have access to your old phone, please disconnect your University of the Sunshine Coast Account in the Authenticator app before changing to your new device.

If you don’t have access to your old phone, please contact IT Student Help Desk or IT Service Desk.

You’ll need to install the app and register your new device as described in the video guide at the top of this page.

If you are locked out of your account outside of business hours, please fill in this simple form MFA AND ACCOUNT ACCESS SUPPORT form and one of our staff or student support teams will contact you as soon as possible.

NOTE: To help us find your UniSC account and resolve your query, please include your Student ID or UniSC email address and the name or course code for the course/program you are currently enrolled in.

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 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
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: J4 IT Service Desk - Student Help Desk in the Library or Student Central.

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

Fraser Coast: Information Technology office, A Block