Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)

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What is MFA?

MFA requires anyone connecting to certain applications to:

  • know something secret such as your password, and;
  • possess a known device such as your cell or desk phone.

Currently, Southeastern accounts only require a username and password to gain access to applications along with institutional and research data.  When an account password is compromised, anyone using that password will have access to all the applications and data the rightful user can access. 

MFA adds a second method of authentication, something physical, that requires anyone using Southeastern credentials to also hold in their possession a device, mobile or desk phone, that has been registered with the University.

What to expect?

Once implemented, you will be prompted to set up your preferred authentication method.  These include, in order or preference:

  1. Confirm an authentication request on your mobile device, or;
  2. Enter a code from an authenticator app on a trusted device, or;
  3. Accept a call to your desk or home phone (you can set up either location), or;
  4. Receive a token via text message to your mobile device

Once enrolled in MFA you will be asked to accept an authentication request (or provide a code) from your chosen method.  Second factor authentication will also be required when logging into MFA-enabled apps from a new device, then once every 60 days.  You do not need MFA to log into your device or for network access, MFA is only required to access:

  • Mail and Calendar applications including Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft Office applications:  Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Skype for Business
  • Microsoft OneDrive for Business
  • Microsoft Teams
  • Blackboard/Canvas
  • Colleague Self Service
  • Other SSO authenticated web services

More information about MFA and How to register your device

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/account-billing/set-up-security-info-from-a-sign-in-page-28180870-c256-4ebf-8bd7-5335571bf9a8

Why is Southeastern Oklahoma State University using Multi-factor Authentication?

Multi-factor Authentication, or “MFA,” protects your account and your data from unauthorized access by requiring anyone with Southeastern credentials to present two methods of authentication:

  • Something secret that you know:  your password
  • Possession of a device known to the University:  typically, your mobile device

With MFA, stolen credentials are much harder to invoke; when an unauthorized person attempts to log into resources from a new device, they will be required to accept an authentication request on your mobile device or to enter a code provided to a physical device known to you (desk phone, SMS message).  Adding this additional authentication method provides significantly more security to personal, institutional and research data.

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