Duo Multi-Factor Authentication FAQ
We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions related to Duo multi-factor authentication.
If you’d like to enroll a device in Duo, or if you need help accessing Duo protected services, please see this guide.
Do I have to use Duo every time I log in?
Yes, but only once per day if you don't close the web browser you're using. This applies to each browser or private/incognito window you open to access a Duo protected service.
Am I required to use multi-factor authentication (MFA), and if so, why?
Yes. All Edifecs employees will be required to use multi-factor authentication to access any resource protected by Duo. We are implementing MFA to protect you, your information, and Edifecs's information.
May I know how to avoid phishing email messages, why do I need to use this?
Unfortunately, experience has shown that people are not as good at recognizing malicious email as you might think. Every day, employees of the Edifecs fall prey to these kinds of scams. We have to take steps to ensure that we are each more than just a single click away from having our paycheck stolen or becoming a victim of identity theft. There are other ways for hackers to get your credentials besides phishing, and multi-factor authentication is the best protection available against hackers.
Does using Duo change how I log in to resources?
First, you will be asked to provide your Edifecs username and password on the single sign-on page (Webauth). Next, you will be asked to pick a method of providing or being contacted for your second factor. This second factor can be a smartphone app (duo Push), a text message to a device, or via automated calls to a mobile or landline phone.
Will it cost me anything to use multi-factor authentication?
It depends on which method you use, but it is highly likely that the cost will be effectively none.
- The Duo mobile App itself is free.
- Generating a code with the App is free.
- The push method to the App, if you are connected by Wi-Fi, is free. The push method, using very little data, is effectively free via cellular data depending on your data plan.
- Generating a list of one-time codes from the multi-factor setup page is free.
- Sending an SMS text message to your mobile phone may incur charges depending on your texting plan.
- Using the call method and your mobile phone may incur minutes charges depending on your phone plan.
What if I don’t have a cell phone?
If you don’t have a cell phone, Duo allows you to use your landline (office, home) phone. You would receive an automated phone call that requires you to hit any button to confirm your identity. You may also generate a list of off-line codes to keep with you as an alternative to the app, text, and voice options.
Can I use the Duo app internationally?
Yes. The Duo smartphone app is designed to work internationally. If you install the app, it can generate the required code without need of either a mobile voice or data plan, and it can do this anywhere in the world. If you have a voice or data plan, the app makes multi-factor authentication as easy as a pushing a single button, but if you don't have one of those things, you can use the app to generate (by pressing the key symbol) a six-digit code and enter that manually.
Troubleshooting Questions
I got a new phone, what do I do?
When you get a new phone, the Duo app will lose its association with your Edifecs account. Each device has a unique ID separate from your phone number.
If the phone number of your new phone is the same, you can still authenticate using the phone call or SMS option, but the push option will not work until the Duo app is re-activated.
To re-activate your Duo mobile app, please contact the Edifecs IT Service Desk.