Protecting Your Online Accounts with Two-Factor Authentication
About Two-Factor Authentication
What is two-factor authentication? Many websites and online services offer two-factor authentication (2FA), also referred to as multi-factor authentication (MFA), two-step authentication, or 'added security verification'. 2FA is an added security feature that helps protect users’ accounts and confidential information. 2FA makes it more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access by strengthening the sign-in process with the addition of an extra verification of identity, in addition to username and password. 2FA adds another step by requiring the user to submit something unique and additional that only they would have, before access to the account is granted. In addition to something you know (your username and PIN, password, or pattern), access would require something you have (e.g., ATM card swipe, or one-time code (generated by an app on your smartphone or texted to your phone), or something you are (fingerprint or voice).
Currently, most online services that offer 2FA use a one-time code. We strongly recommend that you use 2FA for your online accounts, especially the critical ones (i.e. financial accounts). You should always read the backup options of 2FA for any service in the event of losing or having to reset your smartphone or account.
Video: Two Steps Ahead, Protecting Your Digital Life
Traveling with Two-Factor Authentication
If you are traveling and plan to use applications or accounts that require two-factor authentication, be sure to have a way to authenticate your login and configure authentication methods prior to traveling. Note that if use call or text for authentication, your mobile device will often require service at your destination(s). Additionally, if you use an office phone method (if available), an alternative method will be required while traveling. Many, not all, mobile app methods do not require an internet connection. If necessary, check with the support staff before traveling.
Enabling Two-Factor Authentication in Third Party Applications
The table below is a list of popular websites that use 2-Factor Authentication, the term they use for it and some information on how to access it. If you find a popular website that offers 2FA that is not on our list, please email us the website at help@syr.edu.
Website | Term Used for 2-Factor Authentication | How to Find/Turn On "2-Factor Authentication" |
Multi-Factor Authentication | Go to aws.amazon.com | |
Two-Step Verification/Login Verification | Account Settings → Security Tab → Login Verification | |
Two-Step Verification | Settings → Security → Two-Step Verification | |
Two-Step Verification | Settings → Security Summary → Two-Step Verification | |
Login Approvals | Settings → Security | |
2-Step Verification | Launch URL → Get Started → Sign In → 2-Step Verification Settings | |
| Google.com | Security Key (Universal 2nd Factor) | Physical USB-based 2FA component → Go to Google 2-Step Verification Settings → Must have FIDO Universal 2nd Factor (U2F) |
| Two-Factor Authentication | Settings → Two-Factor Authentication → Require Security Code | |
Two-Step Verification | Go to appleid.apple.com → Manage Apple ID and Sign In → Password and Security → Two-Step Verification | |
Multifactor Authentication | Help Desk → Multifactor Authentication Options → Select the applicable Authenticator option | |
Two-Step Verification | LinkedIn Support → Turning Two-Step Verification On and Off | |
Microsoft Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) | Office Support → Multi-Step Verification Syracuse University specific support and information found | |
Security Key | PayPal → Security Key | |
Two-Step Verification | Through Windows | |
2-Factor Authentication | Account Settings | |
Login Verification | "Getting Started with login verification" or Twitter Help Center | |
| Venmo | Multifactor Authentication | Settings → Security → Touch ID & PIN |
Two-Step Authentication | Support → Search "Two Step Authentication" | |
Second Sign-In Verification | ||
Google 2-Step Verification | Through Google |
For another, more detailed list of websites and whether or not they support two-factor authentication, visit https://twofactorauth.org/.
Getting Help
For support of the information above, contact the ITS Help Desk by calling at 315-443-2677, by emailing help@syr.edu, or by stopping into 1-227 CST.