Set-Up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Quick answer: Mitchells & Butlers made Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) mandatory for all Trainwithmable users from 3 February 2025. You can set it up two ways — the Microsoft Authenticator app (recommended) or SMS verification — both take under 5 minutes and only require your phone.

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Disclaimer: This is an independent, unofficial guide written to help users navigate the MFA rollout. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing Mitchells & Butlers Plc or Trainwithmable. For official support, always use the [verified Trainwithmable login page] and contact your employer’s IT or HR team directly.

What Is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

MFA is a login security step that asks you to prove your identity twice: once with your password, and again with a second factor — like a code sent to your phone or a tap on an authenticator app. Even if someone steals your password, they can’t get into your account without that second factor too.

Why Is MFA Now Required for Trainwithmable?

Mitchells & Butlers introduced mandatory MFA across the Trainwithmable platform starting 3 February 2025, as part of a broader push to protect employee accounts from phishing, credential theft, and account takeover — all of which have risen sharply across UK hospitality and retail sectors in recent years.

What you need: A smartphone you regularly carry, with either:

The Microsoft Authenticator app installed, or
A personal mobile number that can receive SMS texts

Method 1: Set Up MFA with Microsoft Authenticator (Recommended)

This is the faster, more secure option, and it doesn’t depend on mobile signal at the moment you log in.

Install the app on your phone:
- iOS: [App Store link]
- Android: [Google Play link]
Log in to Trainwithmable with your usual username and password.
When prompted “More information required,” click Next.
You’ll be told to install the Authenticator app — click Next again (skip if already installed).
Scan the QR code shown on screen using the Authenticator app, then click Next.
The app will show you a number. Enter that same number on the Trainwithmable screen and select Yes.
Verify it’s you using your phone’s Face ID, fingerprint, or passcode.
Your Authenticator setup is complete. You may be asked to enter one final code to confirm sign-in.

Note: Once set up, logging in will simply prompt you to approve a notification on your phone — no typing required.

Method 2: Set Up MFA with SMS Verification

Choose this if you’d rather not install an extra app.

Log in to Trainwithmable as usual.
On the “More information required” screen, click Next.
Click “I want to set up a different method.”
Choose Phone from the available options.
Select your country/region and enter your personal mobile number.
Click Next, then complete the CAPTCHA.
You’ll receive a 6-digit code via SMS — enter it and click Next.
Enter the final verification code sent to confirm setup is complete.

Note: With SMS, you’ll need mobile signal every time you log in, since a new code is sent at each sign-in.

Microsoft Authenticator vs. SMS: Which Should You Choose?

	Microsoft Authenticator	SMS Verification
Setup time	~3 minutes	~3 minutes
Needs mobile signal to log in	No	Yes
Security level	Higher (resistant to SIM-swap attacks)	Good, but more vulnerable to SIM-swap fraud
Requires installing an app	Yes	No
Best for	Most users	Users who prefer not to install extra apps

Recommendation: Use Microsoft Authenticator unless you have a specific reason not to — it’s faster day-to-day and harder for attackers to intercept.

Troubleshooting Common MFA Issues

I lost my phone or got a new one. Contact your manager or HR/IT support team immediately to reset your MFA before your old device falls into someone else’s hands. Don’t wait until your next shift.

I didn’t receive my SMS code. Check you entered the correct number with the right country code, confirm you have signal, and wait 60 seconds before requesting a new code. If it still fails, switch to Microsoft Authenticator instead.

The QR code won’t scan. Make sure your phone camera has permission to access the camera within the Authenticator app, and that the screen isn’t too dim or glared. You can also enter the setup key manually if your app offers that option.

I missed the 3 February 2025 deadline — can I still log in? Account access without MFA set up is likely to be restricted after the deadline. Set it up as soon as possible, and contact your workplace IT support if you’re locked out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is MFA mandatory for all Trainwithmable users?

Yes. As of 3 February 2025, every existing and new Trainwithmable user must set up MFA to log in.

What do I need to set up MFA?

A smartphone you have regular access to — either to install Microsoft Authenticator, or to receive SMS codes on your personal number.

Which MFA method is better: Authenticator app or SMS?

Microsoft Authenticator is generally considered more secure and convenient, since it doesn’t rely on mobile signal and is harder to intercept than SMS. SMS is a solid fallback if you prefer not to install another app.

Can I switch MFA methods later?

Yes, you can typically switch between Authenticator and SMS from your account security settings after initial setup. Check the settings menu in your Trainwithmable account.

What happens if I don’t set up MFA?

You risk losing access to your Trainwithmable account, since MFA became a requirement for login from 3 February 2025 onward.

Is my personal phone number safe to use for this?

Phone numbers used for MFA are typically used only for sending login verification codes. Check your employer’s specific privacy policy for full details on data handling.