Getting locked out of multi-factor authentication after changing phones is one of the most common IT frustrations, and it is very preventable. With managed MFA, backup methods set up in advance, and a quick, verified re-enrolment process, moving to a new phone becomes a two-minute job rather than a lockout that stops someone working. The key is planning for it before it happens.
New phones, lost phones and upgrades happen constantly. Here’s how to make MFA changes painless.
1. Why the lockout happens
MFA is tied to the device that holds the authenticator. Get a new phone without moving or re-registering MFA first, and the second factor is suddenly gone, leaving the user unable to log in.
2. Set up backup methods in advance
With more than one recovery method registered ahead of time, a lost or replaced phone does not lock anyone out. Planning this in advance is the single best way to avoid the problem.
3. A quick, verified re-enrolment process
When someone does get a new phone, we verify their identity and re-enrol them quickly and securely, so they are back in fast. Because we manage your MFA, we can do this without compromising security.
4. Guidance before the upgrade
A little guidance before people change phones, such as moving the authenticator across first, prevents most lockouts entirely. We make sure your team knows the simple steps.
A real example: back in quickly on a new phone
We supported a software company serving financial trading firms where re-enrolling people on new phones was a routine, quick task rather than a drama. One user described it simply: “First Stop has quick access to my desktop, and resolved the MFA issue very quickly.”
For a software, technology or financial trading firm, this is part of managed IT and security that usually costs about £45 to £100 per user per month, scaling with your headcount, your security needs and how much uptime the business depends on.
Why technology and trading firms choose First Stop IT
First Stop IT has supported businesses since 2002, including software and technology companies and firms that serve financial markets. We know the systems these teams depend on: secure VPN and remote access, source control and build pipelines, virtual dev and test environments, Microsoft 365 and Teams, and the security that banks and regulators expect, from multi-factor authentication and endpoint protection to application allowlisting and email security. We work with technology and trading firms in London and across Essex and Hertfordshire. Our credentials include:
- Cyber Essentials Certified
- IASME Cyber Assurance (Gold)
- NCSC Assured Service Provider (Cyber Advisor for Cyber Essentials)
- Microsoft Partner
- Crown Commercial Service Supplier (G-Cloud)
- Quality Principles Certified
We look after more than 2,000 endpoints across 50 companies, we’ve been named a Top 50 UK MSP for three years running, and we support organisations with 10 to 100 employees across Essex, Hertfordshire and London, including Harlow and Bishop’s Stortford.
Book a free IT and cyber security review
Tired of MFA lockouts? Book a free IT and cyber security review with First Stop IT and we’ll make phone changes painless.