UCSH
Authenticator setupUpper Canada Specialty Hardware
Printable PDF
About 10 to 15 minutesAt your desk, on your office computer

Switch your sign-in codes from text messages to the Microsoft Authenticator app

This guide walks you through every click, one at a time. Press Next when you've done what the screen shows. You can always press Back.

What is changing

Your code is 482915
Before: a text messageMicrosoft texts you a 6-digit code to type in.
Are you trying to sign in? 47 Yes No
After: the Authenticator appYour phone shows a pop-up. Type the two-digit number from your screen and tap Yes.

Text messages can be intercepted by scammers; the app's pop-up cannot. It is also quicker for you.

Before you start

Tick each item to continue.

Which phone do you have?

Your choice sets the pictures in this guide to match your phone.

Not sure? If it is not an iPhone, choose Android.

Having trouble with this step?

Step 2 of 7: Confirm the account

Computer

Type the email address shown under your name on the Security info page.

This makes sure you are setting up your UCSH work account and not a different Microsoft account. It is a safety check: if you cannot find the email, you can still continue.

You're finished

Your UCSH account is now protected by the Microsoft Authenticator app, and text-message codes are turned off.

Next, see what signing in looks like from now on. It takes about a minute.

Three rules to stay safe

  1. Only tap Yes when you are signing in yourself, right now.
    A pop-up you did not expect means someone may have your password. Tap No, it's not me and contact the IT helpdesk straight away.
  2. Never give anyone the number or a code.
    Not by phone, email or chat. IT will never ask you for it.
  3. Getting a new phone? Tell IT before you reset or trade in the old one.
    If your phone is lost or stolen, contact IT immediately.

IT helpdesk

Email
garyt@ucsh.com
Phone
Extension 276