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With cybersecurity threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, Laurier is joining institutions around the world in adopting mandatory multi-factor authentication (MFA).
MFA helps keep digital assets, information, and user identities of our community safe – it's an easy way to protect your Microsoft 365 email and single sign-on (SSO) account. MFA adds an extra layer of protection to prevent hackers from getting into your account, even if they have your password.
To get started:
Learn more about the implementation process and see frequently asked questions.
Registering your device for MFA is easy and will only take a few minutes.
It is highly recommended that you set up MFA on at least two devices or set up a minimum of two MFA options (e.g., Microsoft Authenticator App and SMS text messages for example). This set-up will ensure you have a back-up MFA option available, if needed.
Microsoft provides a list of the security keys that are compatible. We recommend the Yubico security key (available for USB-A and USB-C ports).
Laurier strives to provide barrier-free access to digital technologies. If you prefer a security key and need financial assistance, please submit the MFA Support Form (select the “Providing general feedback” option) and we will connect you with internal resources accordingly.
Emergency logins codes should only be used when you are in an emergency situation and you forget, lose, or damage your mobile device or security key, or are experiencing an issue with your MFA.
Create and manage your eight-digit emergency login codes:
Securely store your emergency login codes:
During MFA implementation, Information & Communication Technologies (ICT) offered weekly on-campus and remote drop-in sessions to assist students with enroling in MFA and troubleshooting technical issues with their setup.
For support with MFA, please contact the ICT Service Desk.
If you have issues completing your MFA authentication and need access to a Laurier system immediately, you can use your emergency login code to temporarily suspend MFA for 24 hours.
Emergency logins codes should only be used when you do not have access to your usual MFA method. For example, when you forgot, lost, or broke your mobile device or hardware token.
Don't worry, your account is safe. A phone/tablet alone is not enough to log into your account. Contact the ICT Service Desk.
If you were the victim of theft while on campus, you can report the incident to Special Constable Services. They are available 24/7:
MFA is required in order for you to access:
You do not require a cellular data plan or an internet connection to use the Microsoft Authenticator app. The push notifications method uses very little cellular data and will use Wi-Fi if available.
Text messages are sent only when you request them and would be billed by your carrier like any other text message or inbound voice call.
Hackers will always try to get our passwords, whether through phishing attacks, guessing attacks or by compromising other websites.
Key benefits of MFA include greater cybersecurity and a reduced risk of having your accounts accessed by someone other than yourself. MFA also:
Laurier strives to make its digital resources and services accessible to all users, including those with disabilities who may also be using assistive technology. ICT and the Accessible Learning Centre (ALC) have reviewed the MFA options in collaboration to assess the accessibility options. Please do not hesitate to reach out with suggestions for improvement.
If you have any questions about MFA and accessibility, please contact the ICT Service Desk or the ALC.
Tips and Tricks
There are a few tips and tricks that you can use to optimize your MFA experience, reducing the number of log-ins required and improving the way MFA works with apps like Outlook.