06.10.2026 - 08:47
Microsoft will discontinue support for multi-factor authentication (MFA) via phone call from 1 February 2027. This change applies to you if you have used a phone call as an authentication method when signing in to University services. Prepare for the change by checking your authentication methods well in advance and, if necessary, replacing the phone call option with another method.
What does the change mean?
- From 1 February 2027, you will no longer be able to use a phone call for authentication when signing in to University services. Microsoft is removing this option and recommends using other authentication methods.
- Microsoft recommends a passkey as the most secure authentication method.
- If you currently use phone calls as one of your authentication methods, Microsoft will begin prompting you to switch to passkey during authentication from 8 October 2026.
From 8 October 2026, Microsoft’s prompt to switch to passkey will be displayed during authentication to everyone who has enabled phone calls as one of their authentication methods. You can postpone making the change until a more convenient time.
- We recommend replacing phone call authentication with another method well before February 2027. This will help you avoid possible sign-in problems when the method is discontinued.
- If phone calls are not among the authentication methods you use, the change does not require any action from you.
- Check your authentication methods and, if necessary, change them by following the IT Helpdesk instructions.
Which authentication method should I use?
We primarily recommend the following option:
- A passkey in e.g. the Microsoft Authenticator app or on a USB security key.
Other available authentication options include:
- Confirming a password-based sign-in in the Microsoft Authenticator app or using another app that provides time-based authentication codes.
- Read more about the different authentication options on the IT Helpdesk instruction website.
Remember that scammers may use websites that appear authentic and send misleading registration requests in an attempt to gain access to your user account or authentication details. Always check the web address before approving the registration of a new authentication method. If you receive a request to add or register a new authentication method, always check the address bar in your browser to make sure that you are on an official University or Microsoft sign-in page.
If you need support, please contact the IT Helpdesk:
- Chat (weekdays 9.00–15.00, chatbot 24/7): helsinki.fi/helpdesk
- Tel. 029 41 55555 (weekdays 9.00–15.00, local/mobile call rate)
- Email: helpdesk@helsinki.fi