To improve our cybersecurity and protect personal data, all BCU staff, students and graduates will need to register for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). MFA means you will need to verify your login when accessing BCU systems, similar to what you may have set up for online banking.

What is Multi Factor Authentication?
Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) is the process of using two or more independent factors to verify a user's identity for a login, and to access secure data - similar to what you may use with online banking.
- The first factor is something known only to you - your BCU password.
- The second factor is a single use code sent to your personal device (mobile phone or tablet) OR a message sent asking for confirmation that you are attempting to log in.
Why do we need MFA? What are the benefits?
MFA protects your personal data, BCU data and keeps the University secure against cyber attacks.
Each year, cyber attacks are becoming more sophisticated and safeguarding our data has become more crucial than ever. Multi Factor Authentication is just one of the vital security measures in place as a solution to this.
Always remember that, as a staff member, student or graduate of BCU, you have a responsibility to keep data secure and be on guard against possible breaches and theft.
Which systems are protected by MFA?
- iCity
- Outlook (email)
- Moodle
- Mahara
- Office 365 suite of applications
How do I register for MFA?
When you attempt to login to access any BCU services from outside of the University you will be prompted to register for MFA. Follow these simple steps to activate your authentication.
You will not be able to access BCU services until you have activated your authentication.
Changing your password
MFA also gives you the ability to reset or change your BCU password yourself, from home.
If you have been set up with MFA, you will now have access to reset or change your password for BCU services when you:
- Are working remotely from the BCU network (at home or somewhere else off campus),
- Have internet access and,
- Have access to another device (a mobile phone or tablet).
Instructions for resetting your password are available from iCity.
Instructions: How to reset your password
What are the options?
There are five different methods of using MFA to authenticate your log-in, and they are all quick and easy!
1. Code to your mobile via SMS – You will receive a text message providing you with a code to enter on the log in page. This option is ideal for working remotely – works with any mobile phone, no app to install and no cost to receive SMS in the UK (roaming costs may apply to receive SMS outside of the UK). A mobile signal will be required to use this option.
2. Call to your mobile – As above, a quick call requesting you press the # key to authenticate your log in. This is another quick and easy option – no codes to enter, no app to install and works with any mobile phone. Roaming costs may apply to receive calls if you are working outside of the UK.
3. Code from the Authenticator App – the authenticator app generates a verification code that updates every 30 seconds. Enter the most current verification code in the sign-in interface. The app is free and codes are auto generated without need for Wi-Fi or a data signal – you will need to download the app on to your smart phone or tablet.
4. Authorise login from the Authenticator App – You will receive a notification to the authenticator app on your smartphone or tablet. The notification will prompt you for confirmation that you are attempting to access secure services. This is a fast and easy option, as you just select from ‘Approve’ or ‘Deny’ and you will be logged in. This requires you to download the app on to your mobile device which must be a smartphone or tablet, and you will also need a Wi-Fi or data signal to receive notifications.
5. Call to your Home landline - A quick call requesting you press the # key to authenticate your log in. This option is quick and easy – no codes to enter, no app to install and no cost to receive the calls. Unfortunately if you are away from your landline, you will not be able to authenticate and access any of the above systems remotely
For IT Help and support
Please contact IT Helpdesk via ithelp@bcu.ac.uk or 0121 331 6543 with your query and a contact number and a member of the support team will call you back at the earliest opportunity.