Recent ransomware activity in Higher Ed tells us that now is the time to take action to make sure you don't lose your files and sensitive University information doesn't get exposed. 

How can you protect yourself and the University? First, enroll in DUO multi-factor authentication*. Second, move your files to Google Drive, see http://pmc.humboldt.edu/portal/using-google-drive-file-stream.

Just like your bank requires you to confirm that you are you by sending a text or call, DUO does the same thing for your HSU account. By adding this important extra security layer for everyone at HSU, we can help prevent ransomware and many other hacking attempts. 

You can enroll starting now, at a time that's convenient to you, but by early Spring term, DUO will be required for everyone.  Once you’re enrolled, you’ll be prompted to provide a second factor once a week in each browser you use.

Smart phones are the most convenient second factor (just download the free DUO Mobile app from the App Store or Google Play), or you can set it up to get a phone call. If you prefer not to use a personal device or don't have a cell phone, ITS can provide you a small keychain device ("token") you carry with you.  Those will be available for pickup by any current employees from the parking kiosk starting Thursday afternoon, 1/14/21.

You can start protecting yourself by enrolling in DUO any time between now and the early part of Spring Term. To do this (detailed instructions at https://its.humboldt.edu/security/duo ):

1. Pick a day when you have a few minutes to spare and the device(s) you want to set up in the program with you.

2. Click on Account Settings at the top right of the myHumboldt screen.

3. Go to Requests-> Request Access ->  Check the "Include Self" box

4. Choose System -> IT Admin -> DUO Multi-Factor Authentication

5. Wait a few minutes, then go back to myHumboldt. You’ll be prompted to set up your devices in DUO. 

* What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is the process in which a user accesses a computer system or application and must prove they are who they say they are by using two forms of authentication to log in, such as (1) something they know, (2) something they have, or (3) something they are.

What can you use to log in?

You can use either the Duo Mobile App, a Hardware Token, or (if you use a Macbook) TouchID, to log in with Muli-factor authentication (MFA). We recommend having two devices with one acting as a backup. You can have two smart devices, like a phone and a tablet, or one smart device and a hardware token.  

Here are a few tips we’ve picked up: 

• Make sure you have more than one second factor set up, like your home phone or a tablet, in case your main second factor fails

• If you have a smart phone set up as your second factor and are upgrading your phone, use DUO Restore to update your settings

• Click "Remember me for 6 days" if you're going to be working on that computer for a while

• Add as many devices as you need and edit them as necessary

• If you forget your device, you can call the Help Desk at 707-826-4357. They will verify your identity and provide you with a code for the day.

As always, if you have questions or experience any problems, please call the help desk at 707-826-4357.