How to Authenticate

Learn what MFA is and how it protects you.

Learn about the various options for authentication.

Learn how to download, install and activate the Duo Mobile app.

Learn how to add/remove devices, use a new phone, and more.

You have been Pre-Enrolled to use SMS/Text Authentication

The cell phone you have on file with Registration and Records is used for SMS authentication by default.

IMPORTANT:
Please make sure we have your current cell phone number on record. If you're able to log into mywcc, use the Online Contact Information Change Form. Otherwise, please submit your phone number updates in person or by email using the Student Information Change Form (PDF).

Contact Registration and Records for help with your student record.

Duo Mobile App is Recommended!

Although you have been pre-enrolled into SMS authentication, we strongly recommend that you use the Duo Mobile App to authenticate securely and easily.

Benefits of using Duo Mobile:

It's free and available for Apple and Android devices. See installation instructions.
No need to type in a code - simply receive a push notification to approve authentication requests.
Set your device up as a tablet if it does not have a phone number, or if you do not want to share your phone number for your smart phone.
Receive push notifications over Wi-Fi. This is helpful when you're in an area where you cannot get a cellular signal, or when traveling abroad.
Use the Duo Mobile app even if you are offline and have no access to data, via the Duo Mobile passcode option (see Other Non-Standard Options below).

For more info on authenticating with the Duo Mobile App, see:

Duo Mobile - Push Notification

Authentication Options

If you are using the Duo Universal Prompt, the default authentication method will either be your last used method or the most secure method you have registered.

If you'd like to choose a different authentication method you can do so, by clicking on 'Other options' at a Duo Universal Prompt or the drop-down arrow at a Duo prompt, as indicated by the screenshots in the menu below:

SMS/Text

Phone Call

Duo Mobile - Push Notification

Duo Universal Prompt:

MFA Duo Mobile Screenshot - Check for a Duo Push — Choose the Duo Push option.

Duo Prompt:

MFA Duo Mobile Screenshot - Select an option to log in — Verify your authentication device and select **Duo Push** or **Manage Devices** (recommended to review or add authentication devices).

It should now send a login request to your phone or tablet (If you have Duo Mobile installed and activated on your iPhone or Android device). If you do not see it, you should open the Duo Mobile app directly.

MFA Duo Mobile Screenshot - Duo Login Confirmation — Review the request and tap **Approve** to log in.

For information on specific devices see Duo Mobile Guide.

Troubleshooting

You may have trouble receiving push notifications if there are network issues between your phone and the DUO service. Phones will have trouble determining whether to use Wi-Fi or data when checking for push requests. Turning the phone to airplane mode and back to normal again can often resolve this type of issue if a reliable internet connection is available.

If you are expecting a notification and it hasn't arrived, open the DUO mobile app and pull down on the screen to check for pending notifications. Notifications will expire.

Make sure the Mobile app has permissions to show notifications on your device. Go to Settings > Notifications >Duo Mobile and validate that Alert Style is Banners or Alerts and Sounds as well as Show on Lock Screen are enabled.

Other Non-Standard Options

If you do not have network connectivity, this option to authenticate is available:

Duo Mobile - Passcode

You can use the Duo Mobile app on your smartphone to authenticate, even if your phone has no network connectivity. A six-digit passcode will be generated and be valid for 30 seconds. After the 30 seconds is up, a new passcode will automatically be generated for you.

The following options are only recommended if you do not have a supported device available:

YubiKey Hardware Token Passcode

YubiKeys are available on a loaner basis through the Library. If a YubiKey is lost, damaged, or not returned, a replacement fee will apply and a hold may be placed on the student’s account.

Place your YubiKey in an available USB port. Upon choosing the correct option, place your cursor in the field and press the gold button on your YubiKey.

YubiKey Prompt:

MFA Duo Mobile Screenshot - Enter your passcode (YubiKey) — Tap your YubiKey to enter a one-time passcode.

Accessing Your Account Without an MFA Device

If you do not have access to your MFA device, please contact the Technology Assistance Center (TAC) for assistance. Identity verification will be required, and in-person verification may be necessary if it cannot be completed remotely.

Please note:

Assistance is intended for short-term or emergency access.
After regaining access, update your MFA device settings to avoid future issues.
Contact TAC if you need help with any of these steps.

Please contact us if you need help with any of these options.

Need Help? Contact Us

If you have any questions about multi-factor authentication or need further assistance, contact the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) Help Desk:

Email tac@waubonsee.edu
Call (630) 466-4357
Create a ticket via ServiceDesk