Dear VSB Staff,

Microsoft is introducing changes to how users verify their identity when signing in to Microsoft 365 applications. This Microsoft-led change is intended to better protect accounts from increasingly sophisticated AI-powered phishing and sign-in attacks.

Beginning September 1, 2026, staff who currently use SMS text messages or phone calls to verify Microsoft sign-ins may see prompts encouraging them to set up a passkey when accessing Microsoft 365 services.

VSB's recommended authentication method is the Microsoft Authenticator app. Using the Authenticator app provides a secure sign-in experience and is the method supported by VSB IT Services.

If you choose to set up a passkey, please be aware that VSB IT does not provide support for passkey setup, management, or account recovery if access is lost.

What do you need to do?

If you are not already using the Microsoft Authenticator app, we recommend installing and setting it up before February 1, 2027. Starting February 1, 2027, Microsoft will no longer support SMS text code and phone call verification methods, and you may not be able to access your account.

👉 CLICK HERE for step-by-step instructions on how to install and configure the Microsoft Authenticator App.

Who should take action?

• Staff who currently use SMS text messages or phone call verification to sign in to their Microsoft accounts.

Who does not need to take action?

• Staff already using the Microsoft Authenticator app as their default sign-in method.
• Staff signing in on a VSB-issued laptop or while connected to the VSB network.

Please note that this change only applies to Microsoft applications and services, including Teams, Outlook, OneDrive, SharePoint, and other Microsoft 365 applications, and VSB custom in-house applications. It does not affect sign-ins to SmartFind Express (SFE) or PeopleSoft.

Thank you for helping keep our school district secure.

If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact the VSB IT Service Desk.