Multi Factor Authentication
Keep Your EICC Account Safe
A safer way to sign in is coming.
Your personal information matters. At EICC, we're always looking for ways to better protect our students, employees, and the college systems we rely on every day.
That's why we're updating how you verify your identity when signing into your EICC Microsoft account.
Microsoft is ending support for text messages and phone calls as sign-in verification methods. To prepare for this change, EICC will stop supporting these methods on Jan. 15, 2027.
Instead, you'll use a more secure option, such as Microsoft Authenticator or a passkey.
The change helps protect your information from scams and unauthorized access. We're here to help you every step of the way!
When do I need to make the change?
Students — Before January 15, 2027
We encourage all students to update their sign-in method before the deadline to avoid interruptions to their EICC accounts. The Microsoft change takes effect Feb. 1, 2027.
Employees — Complete before Dec. 31, 2026
EICC will stop accepting text messages and phone calls for employee sign-in verification on January 15. We recommend completing the update before winter break.
Don't wait until the deadline! Making the change early gives you time to get comfortable with the new process and reach out if you need help.
How to Update Your Sign-In
Two ways to keep your account secure
When you sign in, EICC needs to confirm it’s really you. Instead of receiving a text message or phone call, you can use one of these two options. You do not need to set up both.
- Microsoft Authenticator: Verify with your phone
Microsoft Authenticator is a free app you download to your smartphone and connect to your EICC account. When you sign in, you’ll receive a notification asking you to confirm it’s you. Open the app and follow the prompts. - Passkey: Sign in with your computer or phone
A passkey is a secure digital key stored on your computer, phone or another supported device. It connects your EICC account to that device so you can sign in without typing your account password. When you sign in, your device asks you to confirm it’s you using your fingerprint, facial recognition or the PIN you use to unlock that device. Once you confirm, the passkey securely signs you in. You don’t need to see, type or remember the digital key. Your device handles that part. You just unlock it.
Ready to get started?
Follow EICC’s setup instructions for the option you choose. If you’re unsure which
option will work for you, contact the IT Service Desk.
Option 1: Use Microsoft Authenticator
For most students and employees, this is the easiest option.
Download the free Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone.
- On your computer, visit Microsoft Security Info.
- Sign in with your EICC account.
- Select Add sign-in method.
- Choose Microsoft Authenticator and follow the prompts to connect your account.
Option 2: Create a passkey
- Open a web browser and go to https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info
- Sign in with your work or school account.
- Complete any existing MFA prompts if requested.
- Wait for the Security Info page to load.
- On the Security Info page, click Add sign-in method.
- Select Passkey (or Passkey in Microsoft Authenticator if available).
- Click Add.
- This device (Windows Hello, Mac Touch ID, etc.)
- iPhone, iPad, or Android device
- Security Key (such as a YubiKey)
Make sure everything works
Follow the prompts to verify your new sign-in method is working. Keep your existing verification method available until you've successfully set up the new one.
Once you're finished, you'll have a safer way to access your EICC account.
If neither of these options work for you or your devices, contact the IT Service Desk to discuss what alternative options are available.
Don't have a smartphone?
You can still securely access your EICC account. Alternative methods using approved physical security devices are available.
Contact the IT Service Desk for help choosing and setting up an option that works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Keeping your information safe is our priority. Text messages and phone calls can be vulnerable to scams that allow someone to gain access to your account.
Microsoft Authenticator and passkeys provide stronger protection, making it harder for someone else to access your information.
A passkey is a secure way to sign in using a trusted device. Instead of relying on a code sent through a text message, it can use your device's fingerprint, facial recognition or PIN to verify that it's really you.
Passkeys help protect against common online scams and can make signing in easier.
Yes! The Microsoft Authenticator app is free to download and use.
You may already be partway there! You'll still need to make sure you have a passkey set up for your EICC account.
Visit your Microsoft Security Info page to review your sign-in methods.
You can still securely access your EICC account. Alternative methods using approved physical security devices are available.
Contact the IT Service Desk for help choosing and setting up an option that works for you.
If you're still relying on text messages or phone calls after those options are retired for your account, you may have trouble signing in to Microsoft 365 and other college services.
That's why we're encouraging everyone to make the change early.
If you're having trouble, please contact the IT Service Desk rather than waiting until the deadline.
Contact the IT Service Desk for help updating your authentication settings. If you're replacing your phone, make sure your new sign-in method is working before removing access from your old device.
Along with updating your sign-in method, remember to:
- Never share your password or verification codes.
- Don't approve sign-in requests you didn't initiate.
- Be cautious of unexpected emails or messages asking you to verify your account.
- Contact the IT Service Desk if something seems suspicious.
Need Help? We're Here for You!
Whether you need help downloading Microsoft Authenticator, creating a passkey or finding another sign-in option, our IT team is ready to assist.
IT Service Desk
Monday – Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
By phone 563-336-3456 or email helpdeskFREEEICC
You can also visit the IT Help Desk for assistance with your account.