October 21, 2024

Multifactor authentication is an important tool for online protection

ITS offers tips, courses for Cyber Security Awareness Month
Information Technology Services is asking that all students, faculty and staff take a few simple steps to shield themselves and university systems from potential cyberattacks.

In recognition of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October, the University of Nebraska's Information and Technology Services team is rolling out a comprehensive series of tips and educational courses aimed at helping students, faculty, and staff bolster their online security.

The concise 10- to 12-minute courses are part of the “Secure Our World” initiative and available on the Bridge Learning Platform. Enroll in the “Secure Our World” series here. Additionally, Nebraska Today is mirroring course themes in a series of stories published Mondays from Oct. 7-28. The series continues today with a focus on the importance of multifactor authentication.

Multifactor authentication

Enabling multifactor authentication adds an extra layer of security by confirming a user’s identity when logging into an account. This process requires presenting two or more pieces of evidence — referred to as factors — for authentication. Examples include entering a code sent via text message or generated by an app.

Multifactor authentication significantly enhances the security of online accounts. Even if a password is compromised, unauthorized users will be unable to access the account without the second authentication step.

To dive deeper into the significance of multifactor authentication, enroll in the “Secure Our World” learning series.

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, established in 2004, is celebrated each October to advocate for best practices in online safety. The 2024 theme, “Secure Our World,” emphasizes the importance of collective cybersecurity efforts.

For more information on the resources available through the university’s Information Technology Services team, visit the ITS website.