Enable multi-factor authentication to stay secure

Multi Factor Authentication: It is in your hands

Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a simple step you can take to protect yourself from information security threats like ransomware and password theft. MFA works by adding an additional layer of security on top of your password, such as authentication through a mobile device or hardware token.

The University of Toronto (U of T) offers its own MFA solution called UTORMFA. Here are a few steps you can take to protect yourself and your information.

Self-enrol in UTORMFA

UTORMFA enables you to work remotely with confidence. UTORMFA’s multi-factor authentication solution is provided by DUO, a mobile application. When you attempt to login, a push notification is sent to your phone.

Duo Mobile is rolling out a redesigned version of its app that will improve the login experience. UTORMFA’s “remember me” feature has also been extended from one day to seven days to make it even more convenient to use.

Over 11,000 members of the U of T community use UTORMFA. If you don’t already use UTORMFA, self-enrol in minutes.

Protect your personal accounts

In addition to using UTORMFA, it’s important to protect your personal accounts like banking and social media. Many service providers offer the option to enable MFA for your account. Find out how to enable MFA on your personal accounts via the links below.

Enable MFA on your banking and financial accounts

Enable MFA on your social media accounts

Hear from U of T staff about the benefits of MFA

“MFA is one of the easiest and most effective ways to secure your accounts, whether they be work or personal. With the emergence of new and ever more sophisticated cyber threats, the peace of mind knowing that your important accounts and personal data are protected is invaluable. If you haven’t already started using MFA, there is no better time than today!” – Jeff Crabb, Computing Support Analyst, Information & Instructional Technology Services, U of T Scarborough

“In today’s era of rampant security breaches and password compromises, MFA has become a very effective and efficient tool to safeguard access to organizations’ sensitive assets. All of us have a role to play in this fight against cyber-attacks, and adopting MFA to augment passwords with other factors such as smartphone-based MFA applications go a long way in ensuring that such attacks do not succeed.” – Akshat Mishra, Information Security Program Manager, Information & Instructional Technology Services, U of T Mississauga

This article is part of a series for Cyber Security Awareness Month (CSAM). To learn more about how to stay safe online, visit the CSAM resources page.