What is MFA?
Multi-factor Authentication is an authentication process where users are prompted for an additional method of verification in order to access an application or resource. Some of the more common methods utilize a user receiving a text message with a code, accessing a mobile app, or receiving a phone call.
MFA at VWU
MFA will be coming to VWU in the Summer of 2022. More information will be shared with our internal community via email. Information will also be shared here on our Malbon Center for Technology website
Why MFA?
The use of passwords is inherently flawed as it provides malicious entities the opportunity to guess or brute force an individual’s password. Typically, MFA centers around the idea of combining ‘something you know‘ (a password) with ‘something you have’ (mobile app, cell phone, office phone) to ensure it is you. Your account and information is much more secure when systems leverage authentication that relies on ‘something you know’ with ‘something you have’.
The Usage Growth of MFA
MFA used to be an extra layer of security that at one point was considered a ‘nice to have’. Now it is more common to see applications use MFA then those that do not. People will regularly use MFA for their work, banking, credit card, and even social media sites. Insurance companies are now mandating higher ed institutions to implement MFA. With the rise and frequency of malware, ransomware, phishing, and hacking, MFA is a necessary and important tool to help protect us and thwart malicious attempts.