2SV: How do I change or reset authentication options?

This article will help you change or add 2-Step Verification (2SV) methods and walk you through the steps needed to reset your methods.  

Note: If you have lost or replaced your Mobile Device, Security Key or Hardware Token and can no longer authenticate using 2SV Click here.

Before you can make any changes to your Security Info you will be prompted for 2SV even if you are on campus. Your 2SV will timeout after 5 minutes on this page regardless of whether you are in the middle of something or not. If you get a time out error reload the page, complete the 2SV prompt and try again. VIU cannot adjust this behaviour as it is dictated by Microsoft.

Changes you can make if you are still able to sign in

Move 2SV between phones

When you get a new phone you should transfer your 2SV from the old phone over to the new phone before disposing of your old phone.

If you have already disposed of your old phone Contact IT requesting a 2SV reset. Once we have verified your identity and removed your 2SV methods you will be need to set up 2SV again.

If you still have your old phone, follow the steps below:

  1. Download the Microsoft Authenticator App on your iPhone or Android device (it's free)
  2. Launch the application
  3. If asked to share data with Microsoft, choose No
  4. Tap Add work or school account
  5. Follow the instructions to sign-in to your VIU Account and complete the 2SV login using your old phone
  6. Follow the instructions under Delete 2SV methods that are no longer usable (lost, stolen, replaced) to remove your old phone

Change your default 2SV method

  1. Go to your Security Info and sign in
  2. Click Change next to Default sign-in method
  3. Select your preferred verification method
  4. Click Confirm to commit the change

Add additional 2SV methods

As of October 1, 2026 VIU has disabled using text message and voice as 2SV method in preparation of Microsoft ending support for them. If you have them already configured, they will continue to work until February 1, 2027. As of February 1, 2027 text message and voice 2SV methods will no longer work and you will be prompted to choose a supported authentication method.

  1. Go to your Security Info and sign in
  2. Click + Add assign-in method
  3. Choose the method you want to add
  4. Follow the prompts to set up the new verification method

Delete 2SV methods that are no longer usable (lost, stolen, replaced)

  1. Go to your Security Info and sign in
  2. Click the Delete option next to the 2SV method
    Note: You may need to change your Default sign-in method first. You cannot delete a 2SV method that is set as your default.
  3. You will get a prompt to confirm your action, then the 2SV method will disappear from your list

Can't sign in? Request a 2SV reset

If you are using the Microsoft Authenticator App you will need to remove your account from the app before you can setup 2SV again:

  1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator App
  2. Tap your account
  3. Tap the Gear in the top right
  4. Tap Remove Account
  5. If prompted, choose All apps on this device
  6. Follow any additional instructions
  7. Contact IT requesting a 2SV reset. Once we have verified your identity and removed your 2SV methods you will need to set up 2SV again.

If you are using a Security Key:

  1. Contact IT requesting a 2SV reset. Once we have verified your identity and removed your 2SV methods you will be need to set up 2SV again.

If you are using a Hardware Token:

  1. Contact IT requesting a 2SV reset. Once we have verified your identity and removed your 2SV methods you will be need to set up 2SV again.
Print Article