Step 3 of 3

Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds a second layer of security — even if someone learns your password, they still can't access your account without your phone.

What is MFA — and why do I need it?

MFA stands for Multi-Factor Authentication. Think of it like your bank's two-step verification — after entering your password, you get a second check on your phone to confirm it's really you.

This means that even if someone somehow guesses or steals your password, they still cannot get into your account without also having your phone. It is one of the most effective security protections available.

Microsoft 365 requires this for all Rotary District 9660 accounts. It only takes a few minutes to set up, and then it just works quietly in the background.

You will need your smartphone for this step. Keep it nearby — Microsoft will send a test message or notification to your phone during setup.

Choose your verification method

The Microsoft Authenticator app is the recommended option. It works even without mobile phone signal and is more secure than SMS.

Step A1 — Install the app on your smartphone

Download Microsoft Authenticator (free) from your phone's app store:

Tip: on your phone you can go directly to aka.ms/authapp — this short link works on iPhone and Android and takes you straight to the app.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play

Step A2 — Link the app to your account

  1. Back on your computer, Microsoft 365 should be showing a "More information required" or "Keep your account secure" prompt. Click Next.

  2. Select "Microsoft Authenticator" as your method, then click Next.

  3. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone. Tap the + (plus) button in the top-right corner.

  4. Choose "Work or school account", then tap "Scan a QR code". Allow camera access if prompted.

  5. On your computer, click Next — a QR code will appear on the screen. A QR code looks like a black-and-white crossword puzzle square — your phone's camera can "read" it like a barcode. Point your phone's camera at the QR code on the screen until the app recognises it.

    If your phone's camera won't scan the QR code, contact the Rotary District 9660 IT Team at support@rotary9660.org.au for assistance.

  6. Microsoft will show a 2-digit number on your computer screen as a test. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone — it will ask you to enter that number.

    Type the same number shown on your computer into the Authenticator app, then tap Yes or Approve. This is called "number matching" and it confirms it's really you signing in.

  7. Click Next then Done on your computer. MFA is now active! 🎉

    From now on, when you log in, a 2-digit number will appear on your computer. Open Authenticator on your phone, type that number in, and tap Approve.

From now on, each time you sign in, a 2-digit number will appear on your computer screen. Your phone will receive a notification from Microsoft Authenticator — open the app, type in the number shown on your computer, then tap Approve. That's it!
SMS verification requires mobile coverage to receive text messages. If you are in an area with poor signal, the Authenticator app is a more reliable option.

  1. On the Microsoft 365 security setup screen, click "I want to set up a different method" (or look for a link to choose "Phone / Text message").

  2. Select "Phone" as your method, then choose "Text me a code".

  3. Microsoft will show a country drop-down — it defaults to United States (+1).

    Important — change the country to Australia! Click the country drop-down and select Australia (+61) before entering your phone number. If you leave it on United States, your text message will not arrive.

  4. Enter your Australian mobile number. Most of the time you can just type your number starting with 04 and Microsoft will work it out. If asked for the international format, drop the leading 0 — so 0412 345 678 becomes 412 345 678.

  5. Click Next. Microsoft will send a 6-digit code to your mobile phone via SMS.

  6. Check your SMS messages and enter the 6-digit code on the computer within 5 minutes, then click Next.

  7. Click Done. SMS verification is now set up. Each time you log in, a new code will be sent to your phone.

You can switch to the Microsoft Authenticator app at any time by visiting aka.ms/mysecurityinfo.
← Back Finish Setup →
Need help? If you get stuck on the MFA setup, email the Rotary District 9660 IT Team at support@rotary9660.org.au and they can guide you through it.