How do I generate and use MFA / 2FA temporary passcodes?

Overview

This article can help with common issues individuals may encounter when trying to use multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Table of Contents

Requesting a Temporary Passcode

Should you lose, misplace, or forget your MFA device and cannot authenticate, you can request a temporary passcode. These can also be requested if you are going to a testing center and will not have access to your device.

  • Passcodes are good for 3 days or 100 uses, whichever comes first.
  • You can request 24 passcodes per year, so these should not be relied upon as a primary authentication method.

The instructions below assume that you know your password. If you do not know your password, please contact Technology Solutions.

Request a passcode in advance (you currently have your device)

  1. Visit the NetID Center.
  2. Select Temporary Passcode located on the page.

    NetID Center home page with temporary passcode button circled in green
     
  3. Select "Yes, I have my device".
  4. Authenticate like normal using the device.
  5. Your passcode will then be displayed along with the expiration date.

    Temporary Passcode screenshot with passcode example
     

Request a passcode urgently (lost / forgotten device, etc)

  1. Visit the NetID Center.
  2. Select Temporary passcode at the bottom of the page.

    NetID Center home page with temporary passcode button circled in green
     
  3. Select "No, I don't have my device".
  4. Authenticate using your password.
  5. An email with a passcode will be sent to your password recovery email. The email will be from noreply@uillinois.edu and subject will be UI Verify Temporary Passcode.

    Temporary Code example message with message indicating password has been emailed

    If you do not have recovery options set up or cannot access your recovery options, you will need to call Technology Solutions Service Desk at 312-413-0003 to receive a temporary passcode.

    Once you receive a temporary passcode, please visit https://identity.uillinois.edu to set up your recovery email under the Recovery Settings.

    For instructions on setting up recovery options, see NetID Center, Set and modify your recovery options.

Using a Temporary Passcode

  1. Go to the application you are trying to access that requires MFA and login with your NetID and password.
  2. Select the Bypass code option.
  3. Enter the code and select Verify.

    Screenshot highlighting the bypass code option at the Duo Universal Prompt 
     

Canceling a Temporary Passcode

If you no longer need to use the temporary passcode you requested, you can cancel it for security.

  1. Visit the NetID Center at https://identity.uillinois.edu, select Manage my 2FA under 2-Factor Authentication
  2. Under My Devices & Settings select the next to Temporary Passcode and then the trash can to delete/expire the code.

    My Devises and Settings screen showing temporary passcode
     

See Also

Manage MFA Print Article

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