Duo Multifactor Authentication

The Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a critical cybersecurity tool used to confirm your identity and helps prevent hackers from gaining access to your personal information and SJNY network. MFA simply means that one or more additional factors above and beyond your password are required to successfully gain access to a system or account. Paired with your SJNY credentials, it adds an extra layer of identity protection. 

The three factors often used to prove identity to a system are:

1. First Factor: Something you know (your password)

2. Second Factor: An approved device that proves the individual has something in their possession.

   1. • Duo: The MFA system that St Joseph's University has implemented.

      • Hardware Token: A small device purchased by ITS (once approved by department VP or Dean), which provides an alternative to using a smartphone as your second factor.

      • Bypass Codes: A short numerical code that can act as a second factor temporarily.

3. Third Factor: Something you are (like a fingerprint or facial recognition)

Benefits

1. Ensure users are legitimate at every access attempt

2. Verify the trustworthiness of each device used to access SJNY applications

3. Limit sensitive information exposure

4. Simple and secure interface for every login