Instructions to install the Authenticator app or reinstall it for any reason (new phone, phone reset, etc.):
REINSTALLS
- BEFORE removing the Authenticator app from your old device, go to the My Sign-Ins page and check to ensure that you have added Phone as an authentication method. If you have not, select + Add Methods - Phone and follow the prompts to add a phone number. If you need to change an existing phone number listed, select Change on the Phone line item.
- Delete your existing Microsoft Authenticator authentication method.
INSTALL / REINSTALL THE AUTHENTICATOR APP
- Install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device. When prompted, ALLOW Camera Access and Notifications.
- From a PC or MAC computer, go to the My Sign-Ins page.
- Select + Add method -> Authenticator app. Then, select the Add button.
- From your mobile device's app store, install the Authenticator app. Then, select Next on your computer.
- On your mobile device, add your UTRGV account to the Authenticator app:
- On your device, open the Authenticator app.
- Depending on your device's operating system, tap the plus sign or tap the 3 menu dots, and then + Add Account.
- Select Work or school account.
- Select the Scan a QR Code option (the Authenticator app will open your device's camera).
- When prompted, use your phone/device to scan the QR code displayed on the computer screen.
- If you are using the same device to read the instructions and activate the Microsoft Authenticator app:
- On the instruction page, select Can't scan image (right under the QR code). A code and URL will be displayed.
- On the Microsoft Authenticator app, tap OR ENTER CODE MANUALLY.
- Copy and paste both the code and URL into the Microsoft Authenticator app and select Finish.
- You are almost done. Please continue to step 5 and 6.
- From the My Sign-Ins page, check that your other authentication methods are complete and accurate.
- Microsoft Authenticator - Allows you to receive a push to the Microsoft Authenticator app. Additionally, the app generates a one-time-use verification code (passcode) every 30 seconds, even when your device does not have service. To obtain a code, open the Authenticator app and tap your account.
- To accept a push, tap to open the notification sent to your device, and tap Approve and enter the number provided from login screen.
- Phone - Allows you to receive a phone call or a passcode via SMS text. (Needed to set up the app on a new device).
- Alternate Phone - Allows you to receive a phone call.
- Email - Add your non-UTRGV email address. This allows you to receive a password reset link via email.
- Office Phone - Allows you to receive a phone call.
- Check to ensure your default authentication method is correct. Setting the default to "Microsoft Authenticator - notification" is strongly recommended.
- Access the My Sign-Ins page.
- To the right of "Default Sign-in Method," select Change.
- Use the drop-down field to select your desired default method and select Confirm. It is recommended to set your default to "Microsoft Authenticator - notification" due to its convenience and enhanced security.
You can check your authentication methods at any time from the Microsoft My Sign-Ins page.
Additional Help
Edinburg: ECCTR Lobby (next to the EMAGC building)
Brownsville: BMAIN 1.212A (near the U Central tower)
Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Closed on University Holidays
IMPORTANT: DO NOT APPROVE AUTHENTICATOR NOTIFICATIONS THAT YOU DID NOT REQUEST. DO NOT PROVIDE AN MFA CODE TO ANYONE. HACKERS MAY ASK FOR A CODE VIA TEXT, PHONE, OR EMAIL - DO NOT PROVIDE IT. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STAFF WILL NEVER ASK FOR A CODE.
