Support
An ITCS technician will respond to support requests during regular operating hours.
Phone: 252-328-9866 / 800-340-7081
Overview
Multifactor Authentication (MFA) is a security action to verify your identity during log in to ECU resources from a non-ECU network such as your home Wi-Fi or cell service using a separate device such as a mobile phone.
UNC system standards require that institutions implement MFA to protect sensitive information (Level 3/Level 4). Additionally, MFA also protects your identity and information - you should consider enabling MFA (or 2-factor authentication) on any of your online accounts where it is available as an option.
Verification options
During setup, you will choose one of the verification methods below.
Mobile app approval pop up or one-time code. Recommended, especially during international travel. Install the Microsoft Authenticator app to your mobile device. After log in to your computer, select approve from the mobile app pop up or use the one-time code. Standard message and data charges from your carrier may apply.
Text message. Microsoft texts a 6-digit code to your mobile phone. After log in to your computer, enter the code to verify your identity. Carrier text messaging rates apply.
Phone call. Microsoft calls your mobile phone. After log in to your computer, answer the phone call and select the pound (#) key to verify your identity.
MFA is important because:
- A passphrase can meet complexity but still be vulnerable. See these tips for creating a secure passphrase.
- Easily-guessed answers to security questions can lead to account compromise.
- Compromised accounts can be used to send phishing emails leading to compromised data and personal information.
Related Links
Passphrase Maintenance Portal
Available To
Faculty, Staff, Students
Get Started
New users are prompted to set up MFA the first time they access email. Enrollment takes approximately 10 minutes and can be completed on campus or off campus. You will need your computer, mobile device and access to the internet. Choose your primary verification method, then access step-by-step instructions from the Related Articles section.
Features and Benefits
"Trust" your computer. The first time you verify your identity after MFA enrollment, check the box to trust your computer. You will not be asked to verify your identity on that device for 60 days.
Remove the "trust" from a computer. If a trusted computer is lost or stolen, an unauthorized user could access your account without verifying through MFA. Restore MFA to the computer through the passphrase maintenance portal.
Reset MFA for your ECU account. If your mobile phone - your verification device - is lost or replaced, reset MFA for your ECU account through the passphrase maintenance portal. You can then re-enroll using a different verification mobile phone.
Primary and secondary form of verification. During initial enrollment, you configure the primary method of verification. It is recommended that you set up a secondary form of verification in case your primary method is ever unavailable. For example, you access Office 365 over Wi-Fi with no cellular service. You can then use the authenticator app to get a code for verification.
Fees
No fees are associated with this service.