What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an added layer of security that verifies your identity using more than just your username and password. You may also know it as two-step or two-factor verification—these terms all refer to the same process.
After you enter your email address and password, you’ll be prompted to complete a second step of authentication. You’ll only be granted access once this additional verification is successfully completed.
MFA strengthens account security by requiring two forms of authentication:
At Massasoit, MFA is required only when accessing services from off-campus. If you’re signing in while on-campus, MFA is not required.
What Authentication Methods are Available?
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Mobile App (Microsoft Authenticator)
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App Notification
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App Code
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Phone Number
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USB or NFC Security Key (e.g., Yubikey)
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[Backup method only] Personal Email Address
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Receive a six-digit code sent to your personal (non-Massasoit) email address.
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Important: This option is only available for account recovery, not for login authentication.
- At this time, this backup method is not yet available for employee accounts - but it will be supported in the future.
How Many Authentication Methods Do I Need to Setup?
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Students are required to register at least two of the available authentication methods when signing in for the first time.
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Employees need to register at least one authentication method (excluding personal email address, which cannot be used for sign-in).
We recommend setting up more than one method if possible, so you have a backup in case you lose access to your primary method (e.g., if you change phones).
How Do I Set Up MFA?
When you sign into your Massasoit account for the first time, you'll be prompted to set up your multi-factor authentication (MFA) method(s). You'll also see this prompt if you've contacted ITS to have your MFA settings reset.
For step-by-step instructions - including screenshots - please see our guide: MFA - Initial Multi-Factor Authentication Setup.
How Do I Change My Authentication Methods After They've Been Setup?
To update your authentication methods - such as adding a new phone number or switching to a different app - follow the steps in our guide: MFA - Verify & Change MFA Methods.
Note: You must be able to log in and authenticate using your current method(s) to make changes.
If you're unable to sign in (for example, due to a new phone or changed phone number), please contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance resetting your MFA settings.
What If I Don't Have a Cellphone or Mobile Device?
If you don’t have access to a phone or mobile device, you can use a physical security key as an alternative MFA method. These keys - such as those made by Yubikey - function like a USB flash drive and can be used for secure sign-in with a PIN.
Note: Security keys are not provided by default and must be purchased separately.
For Students
If you're unable to afford a security key, you may request an accommodation through the Dean of Students office.
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To apply, please complete this request form.
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For questions about the process, contact the Dean of Students office at 508-588-9100 extesnsion 1402.
Once you have your key, stop by the ITS Help Desk in FA456 in the FA building so we can enable it on your account.
For Employees
Employees may request a Yubikey directly from ITS using this request form.
Once you have your key, stop by the ITS Help Desk in FA456 in the FA building so we can enable it on your account.
How can I get help?
If you have questions about multi-factor authentication (MFA) or are having trouble logging in, the ITS Help Desk is here to help. We can assist with resetting your MFA methods, adding or updating a phone number, and troubleshooting any sign-in issues.
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Located in: the Fine Arts building on the Brockton campus, room FA456
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Phone: 508-588-9100 extension 1139
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Email: helpdesk@massasoit.mass.edu
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Business hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm