2-Step Verification

2-step verification adds a layer of protection against unwanted usage of your account.  The feature uses something you know: your password, and something you have, such as your mobile phone, to reduce the risk of a compromised account.  See the links and FAQ below for how it works and why it is recommended.

How it works

Why you need it

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FAQ

What is 2-step verification?

2-step verification is authentication technology that combines something you know (password) with something you have (phone, device, etc) in order to significantly decrease the risk of unauthorized access.

Will I have to enter a code every time?

No, Google 2-step verification will authorize your device and use it as the second factor when you authenticate.

Can I register multiple devices?

Yes, once registered each device becomes part of your second factor profile.

What should I do if I lose my device?

You can print a list of backup codes when you set up 2-step verification.  The Help Desk can also unlock your account or provide a backup code for you to use temporarily.

Why is this important?

2-step verification will significantly reduce the chances of unauthorized access to your campus account. It is also a good way to prevent access to your account due to 3rd party system breaches, phishing attacks, and brute force password compromises.

What happens if I don’t have a smartphone?

While a smartphone simplifies 2-step verification, it is not required for 2-step verification.  You can use text messaging, voice call, or a dedicated USB key as the second factor. If your only option is a USB key, please contact the Help Desk for assistance.

Do other Colleges and Universities require this?

2-step verification has already been successfully integrated by most of our peer institutions. It has been accepted as best practice by government and industry regulators and is recommended by Educause.

What about shared or office accounts?

We do not recommend 2 Step Verification for shared accounts at this time. We are only requiring it for individual user accounts.

How can I tell if 2-step verification is enabled?

Log into Google mail, click the “BishopApps” icon in the upper right corner, click “Manage your Google Account”, Click “Security” and scroll down to “Signing in to Google”.  The 2-step verification flag should display “on”.

Should I enable 2-step verification on my personal, non-OWU email account(s)?

2-step verification is highly effective in reducing unauthorized access to private information.  We recommend multi-factor authentication whenever possible.

What should I do if I'm traveling abroad and cannot get text messages?

Students traveling abroad are encouraged to install the Google Authenticator app for 2-Step Verification.  You can set up Google Authenticator to create one-time verification codes when you don’t have an internet connection or mobile service.  Google Authenticator can be used in conjunction with other verification methods like text or voice based codes, giving you more authentication options while traveling.

Get Google Authenticaor: