Multi-factor authentication requirements for student accounts
Background
New students at Western are encouraged to opt-in to multi-factor authentication (MFA) when they claim their computer account. However, MFA is not required for students until after the drop-add period during their first quarter. Prior to enforcing MFA, students are encouraged by email to follow the self-enrollment process. Once MFA enforcement begins for their accounts, students must be enrolled in MFA to access Western resources such as email and Canvas.
Why is MFA important?
MFA is the strongest line of defense for account security and is required for all Western computer accounts. This technology helps keep faculty, staff, and students secure from phishing, identity theft, invasions of privacy, loss of data and other issues related to information security.
What students can do
New students
Students should opt-in to MFA as soon as possible to protect their account and prevent future access issues. If students wait until MFA is enforced, they will need to enroll in MFA before continuing to use their accounts, such as Web4U and Canvas. Students may contact the ATUS Help Desk to get help setting up MFA. Student should contact instructor(s) if prevented from turning in assignments due to MFA issues.
If a student would like to complete the MFA process on a preferred timeline rather than waiting for MFA to be enabled on their account, please follow the remaining steps:
Install & configure authenticator app: Click + Add sign-in method > Authenticator app as multifactor verification method > click Add. Other authentication methods are available, but the Microsoft Authenticator is the preferred method.
Student will be prompted to download the app onto their mobile device. Go to app store and download the Microsoft Authenticator app, and open the app, click Add work or school account.
Follow the prompts to finish the setup.
Students can learn more about the process on the ATUS Help Desk MFA webpage or opt into MFA to get started now!
New devices
Add/Verify mobile number or other MFA method to account: On mobile device, go to aka.ms/setupsecurityinfo, log in with WWU account, and add/verify the mobile number to be used as the MFA second factor.
Even if the student has set up MFA in the past, they will need to update sign-in options when getting a new phone or other device. Students may also register a phone number to text for account verification. MFA authentication methods can be changed on the Microsoft “My Sign-ins" page. Student should contact instructor(s) if prevented from turning in assignments due to MFA issues.
On-campus access
At present, students are able to access Western resources (such as Canvas) on campus without the need for multi-factor authentication. This on-campus access may be subject to change in the future, however.
What faculty need to know
Students new to Western will need to complete the MFA process properly to access Canvas. Encourage students to self-enroll in MFA early. In addition, students who purchase a new phone or device may need to re-register the device in order to use it for MFA authentication.
Instructors can direct new students to contact the ATUS Help Desk for assistance (see above). Faculty may consider providing flexibility to students who are late on assignments due to access issues.
Additional resources
Who to contact for assistance
During business hours, calling the ATUS Help Desk at (360) 650-3333 will provide the fastest access to accounts. Visiting in person is also an option. Otherwise, enter a ticket to helpdesk@wwu.edu including W# and a contact phone number that we may reach for identity verification.