Okta Sign-in Loop on Mobile Device

Environment

Okta, iOS, Android

Issue

I'm attempting to sign into an app on my phone or tablet using my U-M account. After authenticating using Okta Verify Push, I'm prompted to sign back in from the beginning of the Okta sign in process.

Resolution

The Okta Verify App does not automatically redirect back to the app you were attempting to sign in to after approving a push. To complete the sign in process, you must navigate back to the page where you were initially logging in. Otherwise, you may be prompted to begin the sign in process again. For situations such as these, the following suggestions are recommend:

Long-Press on the Okta Push Notification:

Some devices may provide quick actions for Okta Push notifications that will allow you to respond to the notification without needing to open the Okta Verify app. Notification quick actions, if available, can be accessed by tapping & holding the notification.

Use the "App Switcher" on the Device:

Utilize your device's "app switcher" to switch from the Okta Verify app, back to the app you're actively signing in to. This may allow you to switch back to the active page for the app you're attempting to sign in to for proceeding with the sign in process. 

• Android:
  • Get around on your Android device
• iOS: 
  • Switch between open apps on iPhone
  • Switch between apps on iPad

Utilize the Okta Verify Passcode from the Okta Verify App:

1. Open the Okta Verify app.
2. Tap on the "passcode" displayed in the app to copy it to your device's clipboard.
   • Note: The passcode will be hidden if biometrics are enabled in the Okta Verify app. To view the passcode, you will need to tap on the "eyeball" icon and verify with device biometrics.
3. Open the app you're attempting to sign in to (e.g., Gmail, Google Calendar, etc) and proceed with signing in.
4. After entering your uniqname/email and password, select the "Okta Verify - Enter a code" option.
5. Paste the passcode copied in step #2 into the passcode field and tap the "Verify" button.
6. Proceed through any remaining app access & authorization prompts as needed to complete the sign in process.

Additional Information

Need additional information or assistance with Okta? Michigan Medicine affiliates, contact HITS. Other U-M affiliates, contact the ITS Service Center.