Arkansas State University to add more data security on its A-State’s MyCampus portal

Beginning Tuesday (March 20) ASU’s Information Technology Services will implement a new software package, Duo, that provides “multi-factor authentication” for accessing sensitive user data.

Multi-factor authentication means the user must provide two forms of identification, a password and a confirmation code. Henry Torres, chief information officer, said implementation of Duo will create a much more secure online environment.

“You may be familiar with such systems from the business world that require you to complete an extra step, such as entering a code to change your password, update a billing address, etc.,” he said.

A soft rollout begins March 20 and will continue for four weeks. ITS is encouraging students, faculty and staff to opt in early so they can assist ITS with working through any unforeseen issues. Duo will work within the MyCampus portal, which is the site where campus users go to pay their bills, check financial aid status, review payroll records, register for parking passes and other conduct other school business.

“To activate Duo, you will be asked to register a phone number at which you can be reached,” Torres said. “This number will be used to confirm that when someone is attempting to login to your MyCampus account, that person is in fact you. You can choose to receive a phone call, text message, or if you’re using a smartphone, you can download an app for a push notification.”

The next time an individual attempts to access MyCampus, the Duo program will alert the user and request verification of the attempt to log in. Effective on April 18, all users will be required to use Duo to access MyCampus. Other ASU systems and applications will be added to the list of Duo-protected systems as needed.