Planned change to SMS and voice calling MFA options – August 27 2026

  • Microsoft will remove SMS text and voice call options from its Multifactor Authentication (MFA) service on February 1, 2027.


    Key dates and what they mean for Queen’s accounts:



    • August 27, 2026: Accounts that do not already use SMS or voice as an MFA method will no longer be able to add a mobile or office phone number for MFA.

    • February 1, 2027: Microsoft will disable SMS and voice calling as MFA options entirely.


    Who is affected and actions to take:



    • Users already using SMS or voice for MFA can continue to use these methods for now, but should plan to switch to another MFA option before February 1, 2027. Setting up an alternative MFA method now (for example, an authenticator app or a security key) will avoid future access issues.

    • Users who do not currently use SMS or voice will not be able to add a phone number to their account for MFA after August 27, 2026.
      For more information and setup instructions, please visit the Multifactor Authentication page on the IT Services website.


  • Publish Date: August 26, 2026 17:11
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