Two-factor Authentication is an additional security method that Cedarville requires in order to increase University account security for faculty, and staff, and student employees. Below are some commonly asked questions about Two-Factor Authentication.
What is Two-Factor Authentication?
Two Factor Authentication protects your Cedarville University account by requiring an additional method of verifying your identity when you log in to Cedarville University online resources, such as Self-Service, Canvas, or myCU. This additional method, along with your password, will help Information Technology be sure that you, and only you, are permitted to access your Cedarville University account.
How do I use Two-Factor Authentication?
After you are enrolled in Two-Factor Authentication, you will be prompted to set up a telephone number or mobile app that can be used to verify your identity the next time you log in to your Cedarville account. After everything is set up, the login page will require you to verify your identity by accepting a push notification to your app, entering a code from a text message, or answering a telephone call, at least once every 31 days.
Why am I required to use Two-Factor Authentication?
Every day, passwords are exposed and leaked by cybercriminals on the internet. Every day, thousands of attempts are made to use leaked or common passwords to obtain unauthorized access to Cedarville University accounts, from across the globe. Two-Factor Authentication helps ensure you and only you can use your Cedarville account, access Cedarville resources, and see your personal data.
Who cares? It's just my email.
A compromised account is a big deal. If a malicious attacker gains access to your account, they can:
- Access personal information stored by Cedarville, such as your Social Security Number, financial/tax information, and family information. This information can be used to steal your identity.
- Misuse your name, email account, and perpetrate cyber attacks on others in the University family.
- Request changes to your payroll and university benefits, potentially sending your paycheck to somewhere other than your bank account.
The consequences of a hacked account aren't merely theoretical — each of these has happened at Cedarville University, to a Cedarville employee.
By using Two Factor Authentication, you protect both yourself and your colleagues.
I share my account with another person (parent, spouse, etc). Can we both continue to use the account?
Cedarville University accounts are to be used by one and only one person.
If you would like us to create a new account for a family member, we'd be happy to do that for you, just let us know.
I don't have a smartphone. What do I do?
If you don't have a smartphone, you can still set up and use your mobile phone to verify your login by text message.
I don't have any mobile phone or device I can use for Duo. What do I do?
Information Technology can provide you a small hardware token that can be carried on a keychain. This token will generate a new code every 60 seconds that you can use to perform Two-Factor Authentication.
What if I lose my phone?
If you are unable to access your account, please contact Information Technology. After making sure that you really are who you say you are, we can provide an emergency Two-Factor Authentication code that will allow you to get into your account without using your phone.
Sounds good! How do I set it up?
- Search for and click the Enroll in Two Factor Authentication task in MyCU
- Click "Enroll"
- Follow the prompts to set up your smartphone to use Duo
Where can I find more information on two-factor authentication?
Please follow the step-by-step instructions provided in the Set Up and Use Two-Factor Authentication help page.
Feel free to email Information Technology with additional questions or concerns, or call us at students, +1 937-766-7905. We are happy to help!