• DID YOU KNOW? 


    YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION     is currently at risk if you do not have TWO FACTOR AUTHENTICATION (2FA) set up for your personal accounts.   

    START USING 2FA NOW!   

    Everyone wants to protect their personal information. Nowadays, passwords alone do not shield you from Cyber attackers, who have the power to test billions of password combinations in a second. With today’s increase in Cyber crime, 2FA is a must for personal and work accounts. Most of us have a smart phone in hand, and this is the best tool to use for securing your accounts, because it is convenient and always with you.     Questions? See FAQs
Help strengthen our defense against hackers and set up a 2FA verification

Ways to Authenticate

  • Buffalo Public Schools Technology Department offers 3 easy ways to protect your information and data as seen below: 

      Phone/Cell - Receive a Call or Text (Recommended)

      • Microsoft Security Code Example

        You will receive a verification code as part of a text message on your cell phone, which you will then enter when signing into Office 365. Or you will receive a phone call asking you to verify your information.


            Cell Phone

        • The text message option is the quickest method for authenticating.
        • If you are unwilling or unable to provide a personal phone number, some good alternatives include using the Microsoft Authenticator app or creating a free Google Voice phone number from your non-BPS Google account.

          
            Office Phone

        • You’ll receive a phone call on your direct office phone, asking you to verify your information. 

         
        Other verification methods:

                      

        Smartphone/Tablet - Microsoft Authenticator App

        • Microsoft Authenticator App Icon

          With this free mobile app, you can sign into your Microsoft account without one. For security, you’ll use a fingerprint, face recognition, or a PIN. And don’t worry—if anything happens to your mobile device or if you forget your PIN, your password will still get you into your account. 

           

          • You’ll use the Microsoft Authenticator App to get a verification prompt that you’ll confirm using a code, facial- or fingerprint recognition.
          • Click here to download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your personal iOS or android device.


          Other           verification methods:

                       

          Computer - FortiToken Windows App

          • FortiToken App

            FortiToken is a computer app that allows you to two-factor authenticate your identity as an authorized employee on the computer that you are already on to help keep unwanted guests out of our network. 

             

            • A user would use this if they wish not to use a phone in any form in the authentication process.
            • This method is the most time-consuming and labor intensive.


            Other             verification methods:

                          

            •  

              FortiTokoen PDF Directions
            If you are having trouble viewing the document, you may download the document.

            FAQ

            • What can happen if I don't set up 2FA?
              You are at a much higher risk.  Cybercriminals can gain access to your personal accounts and information to do things that are harmful to you and others.

               

              Which 2FA verification method is the fastest and easiest to use?
              The easiest and fastest way to set up and use 2FA is text messaging. Although this is a decision best made by you.

               

              Is it safe to authenticate on my personal cell phone?
              Yes. It is safe to authenticate through your cell phone. It is now standard practice across many different industries, such as banks, shopping sites etc. BPS IT will never share your information.

               

              Are there alternatives to using my personal cell phone number?
              You can set up Google Voice or use your Office phone number.

               

              How can I set up 2FA on my BPS Office account?
              You may be prompted to set up 2FA, but you can add verification anytime under your O365 account setting as shown here.

               

              Where can I get assistance with setting up my 2FA?
              The BPS Help Desk is always there for extra support for your technical needs.