2-Step Verification

All High School Students Must Have 2-Step Verification Enabled By January 1, 2023.

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All High School Students Must Have 2-Step Verification Enabled By January 1, 2023. 〰️

 

What is two-factor authentication?

Two-factor authentication (AKA “2FA”, “two-step verification”, or “multi-factor authentication) adds a second layer of protection to your Google account. Currently, your Google login is tied to “something you know” (your password). Two-factor authentication adds the second layer of “something you have” (typically your smartphone, a temporary code, or absent that, a USB security key). You most likely already have experience using two-factor authentication with an online banking account so enabling it within Google hopefully will not be a new experience.

Why are we implementing two-factor authentication?

Adding a second form of verification dramatically decreases the likelihood of your password being compromised. Consequently, our cyber insurance provider is now mandating that all school employees, School Board Members, and even students have 2-Step Verification on their school district-issued accounts. At this time, we are only having high school students enable this feature.

How often will I need to use two-factor authentication?

Google will require two-factor authentication every time you log in to your device. Once you authenticate and complete two-factor authentication on your phone or other devices you will have the option to “remember this device”. From that point forward, Google will not prompt you to perform two-factor authentication on that device unless you clear your browser’s cache, change your password, or if Google suspects that your account has been breached.

What’s the timeline for this change?

ALL high school students must have 2-Step Verification turned on by January, 1, 2023.  If you do not enable two-factor authentication by January 1, 2023, you will be locked out of your account and you will need to contact your school’s Technology Support Specialist to regain access. 

To activate 2-Step Verification on your account, please follow these instructions. 

 

Before starting, sign into your Google Account by clicking this link: https://myaccount.google.com/ 

  1. Then click Count me in

  2. Then click Get Started

  3. Enter your password again.

  4. Select your primary 2-Step option from the following options: 

Security Key - Not Recommended for most users

If you choose to use a security key it will always be your first option so only select the key option if you never intend to use your phone. Keys may also not work on all devices. You always have the option to skip your primary method for a backup method and you can change your settings at any time.  

Google Prompt - Recommended
We recommend you use Google prompts as your second step. They’re easier to enter than a verification code and can help protect against SIM swap and other phone number-based hacks.

To get Google prompts, you need:
An Android phone that’s signed in to your Google Account OR
An iPhone with the Gmail app  or Google app  signed in to your Google Account.

Based on the device and location info in the notification, you can:
Tap Yes to allow sign-in OR
Tap No to block sign-in.

Text/Phone Call - Recommended
A 6-digit code will be sent to your phone. Codes can be sent in a text message (SMS) or through a voice call, depending on the setting you chose. To verify it’s you, enter the code on the sign-in screen.

USB security key - Not Recommended for most users
A physical security key is a small device to help prove it’s you signing in. You can simply connect the key to your phone, tablet, or computer. Not all keys are compatible with all devices.

You may also be able to use the security key built in to a compatible phone to sign in to new devices.