Did you know that you can access your Microsoft 365 Office tools such as Outlook for email and Teams online at https://www.microsoft365.com or by installing the apps on your mobile device?
To access Microsoft 365 online courses including hints and tips, visit the Cheshire and Merseyside Microsoft 365 Knowledge Hub.
To enhance your security, you may be asked to verify your identity using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) when accessing your Microsoft 365 Office apps, such as Outlook for email and Teams.
To ensure you are able to continue accessing your Microsoft Office 365 applications, please set up MFA now so that you can verify your identity if prompted.
What is MFA?
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security measure that is being introduced across Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust on all Microsoft 365 accounts.
This change is being implemented in phases, with MFA being activated across a set number of accounts on a daily basis from 1 November onwards.
Why is MFA needed?
Cybercrime groups can gain access to your account and data if they correctly guess your password or trick you into sharing your details using a phishing email.
To help prevent this from happening, MFA acts like a double lock - adding an additional layer of security to your account sign-in process by asking you to prove who you are using a second form of identification, in addition to your username and password. This second form of ID will only be asked for in situations where your identity needs to be further verified.
When will you be prompted for MFA?
You should only be prompted for MFA when using a personal or non-Mersey Care device.
If you are prompted for MFA when using a Mersey Care device, this could be due to the age of the device or the device requiring a specific update. In this situation, you should contact your IT Service Desk for support.
Next steps and further information
To ensure you are able to continue accessing your Microsoft 365 Office applications, please set up MFA now so that you can verify your identity if prompted.
Please be reminded that when using these apps, appropriate Information Governance (IG) and Security policies and standards should be followed.
For further information and support including Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and guidance on working securely, go to www.imerseyside.nhs.uk/mfa