Changes to Duo 2-factor authentication for some services
16 Apr 2024
The way you log in to University services including Blackboard and MyView is changing.
Currently for services such as Blackboard and MyView, you are prompted by the Duo Mobile app to push an ‘approve’ button when logging in. On Wednesday 24 April, this will change to prompt you to type in a three-digit number instead – the same way you login to Microsoft 365 services.
At approximately 12 noon on Wednesday 24 April, IT login will be unavailable for 15 minutes. Please note however that if you are already logged in and authenticated, this won’t affect you.
What’s changing?
If you use the Duo Mobile app on a smartphone or tablet to receive a push notification when logging in, you will instead need to respond by entering a three-digit verification code into the Duo Mobile app. This code will be shown on the screen of the computer/device you are using to log in.
Colleagues should already be familiar with the change as it was applied in August 2023 to the way you login to Microsoft 365 services, and this was similarly implemented for students in October 2023.
There are no changes to other authentication methods such as entering a passcode from a Duo key fob. When you see the screen to enter a verification code you will be able to select ‘other options’ and authenticate using your preferred method – e.g. by entering a passcode.
Why is this happening?
The company Duo is retiring the old ‘standard push’ notification in favour of the more secure ‘verified push’. The change is necessary for improved security and is being rolled out globally by Duo.
Do I need to do anything?
You do not need to do anything in advance. The change will be applied automatically to University systems over the next few weeks. No disruption is expected when the change takes place.