UTRGV uses Microsoft Self Service Password Reset (SSPR) and Multifactor Authentication (MFA) to help protect your account.
This article explains how to set up Microsoft Authenticator, add backup authentication methods, and get help if changes or resets are needed.
Before You Begin
For the initial setup, you will need access to the following:
- A computer (do not use a mobile device for initial setup)
- A smartphone with access to your device’s app store
- UTRGV account credentials
Step 1: Use the Account Self-Service website
- On a computer, go to myaccount.utrgv.edu
- Select Manage authentication methods.
- Sign in using your UTRGV username and password.
- A page titled Security info will appear.
- Select Add sign‑in method (plus icon).
- Choose Microsoft Authenticator.
Step 2: Install Microsoft Authenticator on Your Phone
Follow the on‑screen instructions to install the Microsoft Authenticator app from your phone's app store.
Important: During setup, allow the app to access your camera and notifications. These permissions are required for scanning the QR code and receiving sign‑in approvals.
Step 3: Add Your UTRGV Account to Microsoft Authenticator
- Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone.
- Select Add account.
- Choose Work or school account.
- Select Scan a QR code.
Do NOT select the sign‑in option.
- Use your phone to scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen.
Note: This screen may time out if setup takes too long. If this happens, refresh the page and restart the process.
If You Cannot Scan the QR Code
If your camera cannot scan the QR code, use the manual setup option instead:
- On your computer, select Can’t scan image (below the QR code).
- A code and URL will be displayed.
- In the Microsoft Authenticator app, select Enter code manually.
- Enter the provided code and URL.
- Select Finish and continue following on‑screen instructions.
Step 4: Add a Phone Number Authentication Method
Adding a phone authentication method is strongly recommended and serves as an important backup option.
Why this is important:
The phone method allows you to receive a verification call or SMS code. This option is useful if you set up MFA on a new device using the same phone number or if the Authenticator app is temporarily unavailable.
Available Authentication Methods
You may add multiple authentication methods for flexibility and account recovery.
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Receive sign‑in approval notifications
- Generate one‑time passcodes every 30 seconds, even without cellular service
- Phone
- Receive a verification call or SMS code
- Alternate Phone
- Receive a verification call
- Office Phone
- Receive a verification call
- Email (non‑UTRGV)
- Used only for password reset, not sign‑in verification
Step 5: Set Your Default Sign‑In Method
Setting a default sign‑in method helps streamline future logins.
Recommendation: Choosing Microsoft Authenticator – notification is highly advised, as it offers both user-friendly functionality and improved security.
Additional Help and Support
If you have changed your phone number or no longer have access to the Microsoft Authenticator app, your MFA methods must be reset by the IT Service Desk.
Identity verification is required for all MFA resets as part of UTRGV’s IT security procedures.
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.
