MSU is in the process of adding steps to safeguard personal and institutional data by implementing two-factor authentication. The first system to be protected in this way is the EBS Portal. Many more will follow. All employees will be required to complete two-factor authentication to log into the EBS Portal on April 13.

What is two-factor authentication?

Two-factor authentication pairs something you have (e.g., a security credential) with something you know (e.g., a password).

If you use an ATM, you’ve been using two-factor authentication for years. You perform transactions like withdrawing money from an account by having a bank card (something you have) and a PIN (something you know). If one of these two items is lost, stolen, or otherwise compromised, another person is unable to withdraw money since they are unlikely to possess both factors. That’s why you should never write down your PIN or keep it with your ATM card. Two-factor authentication is a much stronger method over a user name and password alone. It provides added protection for both individuals and the MSU community.

You will see two-factor authentication more often as an increasing number of our daily tasks are completed online. If your financial institution or other organizations with whom you exchange confidential information offer two factor, take advantage of it. It’s always good to protect yourself if given the opportunity.