Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

When you sign into your network account with multi-factor authentication enabled, you'll also approve the sign-in using your phone.

So, even if someone were to steal your password, they couldn't get into your network account without your device. This makes your account, information, and applications much more secure.

Note: MFA is required of YCP employees and active students. To avoid MFA issues during international travel, please see the FAQ section, below, for more info.


Set up MFA

If you're an employee, the first time you sign into myYCP, you'll be asked to set up MFA.  For students, you'll be prompted a few days after you transition from an accepted student to an active student (which is after you pay your first deposit).  

You may set up MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator Mobile app (which we recommend), an alternate authentication app, or text message (which does not require the app). Each requires access to your phone or a dedicated device. 

Regardless of which method you use to set up, you may always add the other method later or instead.


Authenticator app (recommended)

Text


FAQ

What is MFA?

  • Multi-factor authentication is an approval notification or code (sent to your cell phone) used to sign into your network account. This makes it difficult for someone else to get into your account without this second step.

Why do we need it?

  • As computers become more powerful and hackers become more prevalent, passwords alone are often not enough to protect systems and data. The MFA is linked to your device to ensure that it is you accessing your account.

Who is affected by MFA?

  • All YCP and YCDS faculty, staff, students, and vendors are required to have MFA.

Can I use MFA internationally?

  • Yes, if you've set up an authenticator app, all you need is a data connection to be able to approve your login, or an international plan to receive your text messages if you set up a phone number.  Contact your cell provided for questions regarding international data or text message rates. 

How often do I have to approve MFA push notifications or enter a code?

  • Once we turn on MFA, you will generally be prompted to approve a notification, or enter the code, every 30 days when signing into my.ycp.edu on a single device and browser.
  • You will also have to do so when:
    • Signing in on a new device or browser.
    • We update the system.
    • Microsoft senses a security concern (such as a connection from a new location).

Do I have to set up MFA on every computer I use?

  • No, you set up MFA once on device of your choosing.  This device is then needed to approve a notification or enter the code displayed to confirm login to your account.

What MFA methods may I choose?

  • SMS text messaging
  • Push notification
  • One-time password code, found within the Authenticator app.

Do I have to have cellular or wireless access to use MFA?

  • To receive one-time password codes in the Authenticator app, no.
  • To download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device and use push notification or SMS text authentication methods, yes.

What if my authentication device is stolen?

  • Notify us as soon as possible.  We can revoke MFA access from the stolen device, to prevent others from using it to access your account.

Does MFA store my persoanl phone data?

  • No. None of your personal data is stored. MFA is not designed for data storage; it is only an authentication program.

Contact Us:

For more information or clarity, please contact Library and Technology Services (LTS)

  • Library and Technology Services (LTS):
    • Phone: 717-815-1559
    • Email: LTShelp@ycp.edu
    • Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Still having trouble with Multi-Factor Authenticator? 

Submit a Ticket Here