Multi-factor authentication (MFA), Microsoft Authenticator at the University, is adding multiple layers of security to your house. Like adding a bodyguard behind your door verifying IDs before letting anyone unlock the door.
This is why MFA/Authenticator is enabled for your uOttawa accounts. If you log in using your password, your identity must be proven through the Authenticator app on your smartphone (which is hopefully protected with a passcode, Face ID or fingerprint scanner). That’s two layers of security: your password (something you know), and the Authenticator app confirming your identity (something you have).
Each layer of security makes it significantly harder for anyone to break in. This increases your security and protects your identity. This can be useful in situations where you want:
- notifications if someone tries to access your accounts
- added protection if your account is compromised
- security for your accounts if your devices are lost/stolen
Bottom line
Adding any kind of authentication to your accounts makes hacking them harder, even if your password is compromised.
When you turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA), you’ll get a quick notification or prompt whenever someone tries to log in to your account. If you ever see a pop up and you aren’t logging in, it means someone else might be trying to get in. That’s your warning sign to act: increase your vigilance, change your password and lock things down.
