What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Setting Up Multi-Factor Authentication Configure your Microsoft Authenticator App Configure SMS or Voice Calling Configure a Yubico Security Key How to update or add additional MFA options Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Introduction
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a mechanism that provides a secondary form of identification when signing in to ensure you are who you claim to be.
MFA combines at least two forms of authentication: a password and a secondary code generated by a cell phone or a code generator. In the event of a password compromise, your account cannot be accessed unless that party has access to your cell phone or code generator.
MFA is common with internet banking and social media platforms and is an effective way to prevent unauthorized access to your account and information.
Niagara College has created a How To Video about Multi-Factor Authentication – What is it and why is it more secure than a password alone!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is Niagara College using multi-factor authentication?
Increasingly, bad actors try to compromise accounts to steal personal and financial information, send spam (unsolicited email), malicious software and ransomware. Ransomware is often used to block access to your data until money has been paid. Enabling MFA is an effective way of preventing these types of attacks.
Who has to use MFA?
Niagara College employees and students will need to use MFA when accessing college resources off campus. However, some applications may require MFA regardless of location.
How often will I have to verify my identity?
The frequency will vary depending on geographic location, application being used and permission levels.
Where do I find my verification code?
Mobile Devices: If you’ve set up MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator App, use that to get your code. If you chose SMS (Text) you will receive a text message with your One Time Passcode (OTP).
Security Key: If you are using a Security Key, you will need to plug this into a USB port on the device you are using to connect with.
I don’t own a mobile device, what do I use for MFA?
You can obtain a hardware Security Key to plug into a USB port on your computer.
**PLEASE NOTE** This option is not provided by Niagara College and must be purchased separately.
While using a security token is not the preferred method for MFA, students wishing to use a token must purchase the ITS approved and compatible token.
The Yubico Security Key is compatible with Microsoft MFA and other verification systems and can be purchased on the following sites:
Yubico YubiKey 5 NFC – Amazon Canada
Yubico YubiKey 5 NFC – Yubico Website
Do I have to pay for a Security Key if I want to use one?
Yes. Niagara College ITS does not supply Security Keys.
Are there any benefits to using my cell phone rather than a Security key?
Yes. The mobile app is easy to use and can be used without a data plan or if cellular reception is poor.
The Security Key is an additional item to have with you and is more likely to be forgotten rather than your mobile phone. Note: Accessing college applications and services may not be possible without MFA.
When I set up MFA, is my personal email and cell phone number used by other Niagara College systems?
No. Personal email addresses and phone numbers are not used in other Niagara College systems.
I was prompted to approve a login I didn’t initiate, what should I do?
Never approve a request you did not initiate. If you are receiving multiple MFA prompts but are not trying to login, be sure you do not have any applications or NC web pages open. If you are still receiving prompts, you can contact the ITS Service Desk.