Enhancing Your Account Security with Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your Alma account by verifying your identity through more than one method. This article walks you through turning MFA on, managing your method, and troubleshooting common issues.

What Is Multi-Factor Authentication?

MFA requires something you know, like your password, and something you have, like your mobile device, before you can log in. This makes it significantly harder for anyone else to access your account, even if your password is compromised.

Video Walkthrough

The video below will walk you through how to enroll in Multi-Factor Authentication via the SMS method.

Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (New Accounts)

New providers must enroll in MFA immediately after setting their password and logging in for the first time.

After you enter your password, the Alma portal redirects you to the Multi-Factor Authentication Setup screen.
Choose your preferred method: Text Messaging or Code Generator App. By default, the portal suggests Text Messaging (SMS).

Note: The system automatically uses the phone number you provided during onboarding. For Text Messaging to work, this number must be a cell phone capable of receiving texts. If your number is a landline or incorrect, select the Code Generator App instead, or contact your Account Executive immediately to update your primary contact number.

Manage or Change Your MFA Method

Log in to the Alma portal and select Account Settings under your profile picture in the top right corner.
Select Security in the left side menu.
Select Use Code Generator or Use Text Messaging as your authentication method. The portal asks for a new code each time you log in, so choose whichever method is most convenient for you.

To use a code generator:

Install a code generator app. We recommend Google Authenticator: click here for Android; click here for iOS.
Follow the instructions in the app.
Type the six-digit code the app generates into the Alma portal.
Select Submit.

To use a text message:

Confirm the phone number listed under Account Settings > Personal Info is up to date.
The Alma portal sends a six-digit verification code to this number within 1–2 minutes.
Type the code you receive into the Alma portal.
Select Submit.

Once enabled, the Alma portal shows a confirmation message, and Alma sends you a confirmation email.

Update Your Phone Number or Email Address

Log in to the Alma portal and select Account Settings under your profile picture in the top right corner.
Edit your phone number or email address on the Personal Info page, then select Save Changes.

If you are enrolled in SMS MFA and update your phone number, the portal asks you to confirm the new number can receive texts. It sends an MFA code to the new number to verify it, then uses that number for all future MFA logins once confirmed.

Switch Between SMS and a Code Generator

Log in to the Alma portal and select Account Settings under your profile picture in the top right corner.
Select Security in the left side menu.
Select Reset Multi-Factor Authentication. Alma emails you a confirmation that MFA has been deactivated.
Follow the setup steps above to re-enroll using your preferred method.

FAQ

How Often Do I Need to Enter an MFA Code?

The Alma portal prompts you for an MFA code each time you log in. Once you complete a successful login, you can access the portal for 5 days without another prompt; roughly 6 logins per month to maintain continuous access.

What If I Enter the Wrong MFA Code?

You see a "Code is not valid. Try again, or view troubleshooting tips" message.

If you use a code generator app, the app automatically refreshes with a new code you can enter.
If you use SMS, you automatically receive a new text with an updated code.

What If I Do Not Receive My SMS Code Within 3 Minutes?

Confirm the phone number on your account is accurate. If it is correct and you still are not receiving codes, contact us by selecting the Help button in the bottom right corner of the Support Center.

What If I Lose Access to My Phone or Authenticator App?

Contact us by selecting the Help button in the bottom right corner of the Support Center. Our support team can help you regain access to your account.