Have you logged into a website and been asked to further verify who you are by entering a code sent via text or email? If so, you’ve used multi-factor authentication. Many organizations are using it to improve account security, and now it’s here at Barry.
What is it?
MFA improves account protection by requiring additional types of credentials to verify your identity. A typical MFA login would ask the user to present something you know, e.g. password, plus something you have in your possession, such as a mobile device or email account.
Why implement it?
It’s becoming well established that a traditional username and password combination no longer sufficiently protects against common cyberattacks, and lends itself to being vulnerable to:
- Social engineering
- Targeted phishing
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- Password cracking
- Lax security by individuals
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Implementing MFA can prevent an intruder from accessing your account even if your password was compromised. We think this will significantly reduce the incidence, anxiety and time lost during an identity theft.
How will MFA work at Barry?
When visiting online resources such as Workday, Canvas or email, we’ll ask you to enter another verification option in addition to your username and password:
If you’ve previously created password recovery options you can use them here, and setting up the new Google Authenticator will allow you to use it as another MFA verification option as well. Our KB article on Managing your Account Recovery and MFA Settings provides information on how to do so.
Things to know
- Clearing your web browsers cookies/cache will trigger an MFA verification request, even if you’ve opted to “Trust” your device.
- A change in the follow will prompt for MFA verification:
- The language of your browser
- The font installed in the browser
- The device’s time zone
- The device’s operating system
- Each time you are prompted for MFA you will receive an email message titled "Unusual Sign-Activity".
- Review the Recommended browsers for Barry University Online Resources.