Multi-Factor Authentication

Microsoft will retire SMS and voice call authentication methods on February 1, 2027. Liberty recommends transitioning personal devices to passkeys now to prepare for this change and ensure uninterrupted access to university accounts and resources.
Please note: LU-owned/managed devices are not yet fully configured to support passkeys and are still in the process of accepting this authentication method.

Protect yourself. Protect the university. Use MFA.

Securing the most vital university resources on a personal and institutional level is of the utmost importance to Information Services. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security beyond your password, helping protect accounts from unauthorized access, phishing attempts, and other cyber threats.

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Passkeys: The Preferred MFA Method

Passkeys provide a faster, easier, and more secure sign-in experience by using your device’s built-in security features, such as a fingerprint, facial recognition, or PIN. As a phishing-resistant authentication method, passkeys help protect against common account attacks while simplifying the sign-in process.

Why switch to a passkey?

• Faster sign-ins with no verification codes
• Stronger protection against phishing and account compromise
• Seamless authentication across supported devices
• Improved security for your university account

To set up a passkey, follow the steps below or refer to this resource:

1. Sign in to your MFA Security Settings
2. Select Add sign-in method
3. Choose Passkey
4. Follow the prompts to complete setup
5. Sign in using your fingerprint, face recognition, or PIN

Please note: LU owned/managed devices are still in the process of accepting Passkeys.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is multi-factor authentication (MFA)?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your Liberty account by requiring two forms of verification: your password (something you know) and your mobile phone or device (something you have). This helps prevent unauthorized access and protects both you and the university from cyber threats.

For more information, review the Multi-Factor Standard.

Who needs to register for MFA?
All staff, students, and applicants are required to register for multi-factor authentication.

When do I have to register for MFA?
Once you receive the registration notification, you will have 14 days to register voluntarily before it becomes a mandatory prompt.

What devices can I use to register with?
You can register a passkey on many personal devices that support built-in security features, including:

• Smartphones with fingerprint or face recognition
• Tablets with biometric authentication
• Computers that support passkey-enabled sign-in methods

SMS and voice call verification may still be available during the transition period, but are no longer the recommended authentication methods.

What is a passkey?
A passkey is a sign-in method that uses your device’s fingerprint, facial recognition, or PIN to verify your identity. Passkeys provide a faster, easier, and more secure sign-in experience than traditional verification methods.

Why should I switch to a passkey?
Microsoft will retire SMS and voice call authentication methods on February 1, 2027. Switching to a passkey now helps ensure continued access to your account and provides stronger protection against phishing and account compromise.

What should I do if I get an authentication message and I am not trying to log in?
Deny the request. If this occurs, report the incident to HelpDesk by calling 1-866-447-2869 or going to www.liberty.edu/HelpDesk.

Why do I get so many MFA prompts?
If you’re using a personal VPN while connecting to LU resources these have a higher chance of causing an MFA prompt. If you are using personal VPN, try limiting to a specific location or region, this may help reduce the amount of MFA prompts that occur. For daily MFA prompts for non-financial applications, please contact the HelpDesk for assistance.

Can I opt out of MFA?
No. MFA adds a second layer of security to our online accounts. In an effort to keep your personal account information and campus systems secure we are requiring all staff to register.

What is conditional MFA?
You will receive a prompt if suspicious or unexpected activity occurs. Conditional MFA is enabled when one or more of the following criteria are met:

1. Sign-ins from IP addresses with suspicious activity
2. Sign-ins from infected devices
3. Sign-ins from unfamiliar locations 
4. Sign-ins from anonymous IP addresses
5. Accessing applications that house sensitive or confidential data
6. Impossible travel (Lynchburg > New York within 2 hours)

What if I already registered for Password Reset?
We’ve combined our Password Reset and Multi-Factor Authentication tools! Now you can control your account from either platform.

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