Multi-factor Authentication to be Required for Students to Access Google Workspace Starting Jan. 28, 2025
Students: In our ongoing commitment to enhance cybersecurity and protecting sensitive information, we are implementing Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) for Google Workspace on January 28, 2025.
Starting Tuesday, January 28, 2025, MFA will be required for all students when accessing Google Workspace (eMail, Drive, Calendar, Docs/Sheets/Slides, Chat/Meet, etc.). This is an essential step in strengthening our cybersecurity posture and ensuring the safety of our digital environment.
What You Need to Know
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring not just your password (something you know) but also a second form of authentication (something you have), which you will complete using the SecureAuth MFA mobile application. You will not be required to complete MFA each time you access Google Workspace as the system determines when its confidence of your authentication is below the threshold and will only then ask you to complete MFA.
Why MFA?
- Increased Security: MFA greatly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if your password is compromised. It’s an industry best practice and a key requirement for renewing our cybersecurity insurance policy.
- Risk-Based Assessment: The MFA application performs a risk assessment each time you access Google Workspace. If it confidently identifies you as the account holder, it may not require you to complete the authentication process every time, making the process seamless for frequent users.
Getting Started
We have prepared a step-by-step guide on how to download and configure the mobile application for MFA. Please visit LC Multi-Factor Setup Guide to get started. We ask that you begin the process of downloading and configuring the application before January 28, 2025 to ensure a smooth transition. We strongly encourage the use of mobile devices for this purpose. For those who do not have access to a mobile device, we support the use of hardware security keys and will provide these at no cost to students without access to a mobile device. Options to utilize biometrics are available If you require a hardware security key or wish to configure the biometric features, please contact itservice@lclark.edu.
Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to keeping our community secure. Should you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact the IT Service Desk at itservice@lclark.edu.
