Here at Fentons we do all we can to ensure our customers are cyber safe.
These days, hackers are more prolific than ever with attempts to damage and defraud organisations – they are taking over accounts and accessing data, by discovering passwords or tricking people into divulging them.
Using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), also known as 2FA and 2-step verification is one of the easiest and most effective ways to increase the security of your personal identity.
How does it change access to data?
When you log in, Multi-Factor Authentication prompts you to enter a randomly generated code from your phone or to acknowledge a prompt on a separate device, before authenticating your access.
Microsoft say using Multi-Factor Authentication blocks 99.9% of account hacks. Which is reassuring when Microsoft cloud services experience over 300 million fraudulent sign-in attempts per day.
We urge all customers use MFA to protect Microsoft 365 and all internet-based accounts. It is free and part of Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
The easiest verification method for Microsoft 365 is to use the Microsoft Authenticator app. It’s one click instead of typing in a 6-digit code. Also, if you’re travelling, you won’t incur roaming text fees when you use it.
Click the following links to download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app for:
Set-up process:
Open an Internet browser (like Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, etc.) on your computer and go to https://portal.office.com
Next, Sign-in to your Office 365 for business account.
If you see this screen:
1. Click Set it up now.
2. Choose Mobile app from the drop down.
3. Make sure “Receive notifications for verifications” is selected. Click Set up.
If you see this screen:
1. Choose Settings > Office 365.
2. Choose Security & Privacy > Additional security verification > Update my phone numbers used for account security.
3. In the drop-down box under What’s your preferred option, choose Notify me through app.
4. Check the box for Microsoft Authenticator app, click Configure.
Wait for configuration pop-up box
You should see a window on your computer that looks like this:
Add account to Microsoft Authenticator
1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone.
2. Tap the + > Work or school account.
3. Use your phone to scan the QR square that is on your computer screen.
Notes:
• iPhone users may have to enable the camera in Settings in order to scan.
• If you can’t use your phone camera, you’ll have to manually enter the 9 digit code and
the URL.
4. Your account will be added automatically to the app and will display a six-digit code.
Confirm activation status on your computer
1. Switch back to your computer and click Done.
2. Now wait for the Checking activation status text to finish configuring your phone.
3. When it’s complete, you’ll be able to click the Contact me button on the right.
Note: If configuration fails, just delete retry the previous steps again.
Approve sign in on your phone
1. Switch back to your phone and you’ll see a notification for a new sign in.
2. Go to the Microsoft Authenticator app.
3. Tap Approve to allow it.
Finish set up
1. Back on the computer, follow any prompts that you might see such as adding a mobile number.
2. You’re good to go!
From now on, whenever you have a new sign in or add your Office 365 work or school account to an app, you’ll open the Authenticator app on your phone and tap Approve.
If you hit any problems enabling Multi-Factor Authentication, contact Fentons so we can make sure your company is secure.