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Phish Files
April 29, 2025

DUO MFA: Are You Protected?

Posted in: News

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In today’s digital age, securing online accounts is more important than ever. Universities and colleges house vast amounts of sensitive information, making them prime targets for cyber threats. Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to protect students, faculty, and staff from unauthorized access and cyberattacks.

What is Duo MFA?

Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security measure that adds an extra layer of protection to user accounts by requiring multiple forms of verification before granting access. This helps prevent unauthorized access, even if passwords are compromised. 

Why is Duo MFA Important?

Cybersecurity threats such as phishing and credential theft are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Passwords alone are no longer sufficient to protect sensitive data. Duo MFA enhances security by requiring users to confirm their identity through a second factor, such as:

  • A push notification to a mobile device
  • A one-time passcode (OTP) from an authenticator app

By implementing Duo MFA, Montclair can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to student records, faculty accounts, and administrative systems.

How to Use Duo MFA

  1. Enrollment: Users must first enroll in Duo by logging into the self-service portal
  2. Download: Users will need to download the Duo app to their mobile device
  3. Logging In: Utilize your NetID and password to access NEST or Workday
  4. Second Factor Authentication: After entering in their login credentials, users will receive a prompt to verify their identity using their chosen authentication method (e.g., push notification, OTP, etc.)
  5. Access Granted: Once authentication is confirmed, users gain access to the system securely

For more information on using Duo please click here

What the Campus Community Needs to Know

  • Setup is Quick and Easy: Enrolling in Duo only takes a few minutes, and the app is free to download on iOS and Android devices
  • Backup Options are Available: Users should register multiple devices (such as a phone and a tablet) to ensure access in case their primary device is lost or unavailable
  • Beware of MFA Fatigue Attacks: Hackers may attempt to bombard users with authentication requests to trick them into approving an illegitimate login

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