What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
How do I enroll in MFA?
Do I need to use MFA when I am on campus?
Do I need a smartphone to use MFA?
How do I set up an older cell phone or use a smartphone without the Okta app installed?
What do I do if I do not have my mobile phone with me?
Why am I prompted for MFA if I clicked on the 30-day checkbox?
Does the Okta Verify app require a cellular or Wifi connection?
Does the Okta Verify app work when I travel abroad?
Why should I use SMS (text message) if I already have the Okta Verify app on my phone or tablet?
Is it possible to receive a second factor in more ways than one?
What is a YubiKey?
How can I obtain a Yubikey?
What if I lose my MFA factor(s)?
What do I do if my phone or tablet was stolen or damaged?
MFA adds a second layer of security to your Union login process. In addition to your password, a second factor, such as the Okta app on a smartphone, a text message, phone call, or portable key will be used to verify your identity.
You can enroll in MFA by following the steps detailed here.
No, you will not be prompted for MFA when you access Union systems while on campus.
A smartphone is the recommended device since the Okta Verify app provides the greatest level of security and flexibility to you. The app generates passcodes for log in (even without cellular connectivity) and can receive push notifications for easy, one-tap authentication. You can also use an older cell phone, landline (such as your office or home phone), tablet, or security key.
Okta will work with any cell phone that can receive text (SMS) messages.
Okta can call your office line if you have set it up as an alternative number. We recommend adding your office line and possibly other lines, as appropriate. For example, you may want to have a spouse's mobile number as an option in case of emergency.
The "remember me" option is tied to a particular browser on a single device. If you log in using a different browser or device, you will need to check the "remember me" box again.
The Okta Verify app, when configured on a smartphone or a tablet, will continue to provide numeric multi-factor codes without a data connection or while the device is in airplane or offline mode. When prompted by your Okta log on, simply enter the 6-digit code displayed in the app.
Yes! The Okta Verify app will continue to provide numeric multi-factor codes on your smartphone or tablet even with no cell or wi-fi connection. When prompted for an MFA factor during the logon, simply open the Okta Verify app on your phone and enter the provided 6-digit code.
View this video for additional information: MFA - Traveling Abroad
The Okta Verify app is the easiest way to authenticate using MFA because it supports "push" technology. Your phone will ask if you are signing on and you only need to acknowledge it; no typing required. If something is not working right with the app, having your cell phone number as a backup method assures that you can still obtain the code.
Yes. ITS recommends configuring several methods of receiving your MFA code. A phone call, text message, and smartphone app are all recommended options. Multiple options are not only convenient, they provide alternative means of retrieving a code should one method not be available.
A YubiKey is a small device that you insert into your computer USB port. When you touch or tap the button on the YubiKey, it generates a unique MFA passcode.
Contact the ITS Help Desk at (518) 388-6400.
ITS recommends configuring more than one factor, such as the Okta Verify app plus a text message (SMS) number, as well as a phone number. If you lose or do not have access to all of your factors you can contact the ITS Help Desk at (518) 388-6400 and we can assist you to access your account and configure your factors.
Contact the ITS Help Desk at (518) 388-6400 for assistance removing the device from your account.
If you are having difficulty or you have unanswered questions, please contact the Help Desk through the ITS Service Catalog or call (518) 388-6400.