Securing UARK Accounts Is Easy With Microsoft Authenticator App

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) plays a vital role in keeping university accounts, data and information protected, which is why all university accounts are required to have some level of MFA. However, publicly switched telephone networks (PSTN), such as SMS and voice authentication, are the weakest forms of MFA.  

IT Services strongly recommends the Microsoft Authenticator app as the preferred method of MFA, as it is the most effective and secure way to verify access. Individuals who are relying on SMS and/or voice authentication will soon be prompted to update their MFA preferences. As of now, this notification can be snoozed, but it is strongly encouraged to set up the authenticator app as soon as possible.  

As cybersecurity remains a high priority for the U of A, MFA is a useful tool that provides an added layer of protection to your accounts. Using the Microsoft Authenticator app ensures unauthorized users cannot access your account or information without the codes that are sent directly to your device. To be effective, it is imperative that you do not share your MFA codes with anyone. Please note that the university will never ask for your MFA codes or passwords. 

Questions about MFA or the Microsoft Authenticator app can be directed to the office of the chief information security officer at security@uark.edu. For assistance with your account or MFA setup, please contact the IT Help Desk at 479-575-2905.