One step ahead: get a “nudge” in the right direction
Another tip in a series provided by the Offices of Information Security, Computer and Information Systems, and Audit, Compliance, and Privacy
When you use your PennKey to sign in to Penn resources, two-step verification is an added layer of security that helps protect your privacy and Penn data.
In situations where two-step verification is required, you usually have the option of confirming your identity through the Duo Mobile app or via SMS/text.
The Duo Mobile app, which will “send” a notification to your cell phone when you try to log in, is the recommended option, it’s not only more secure, it’s also much faster and more reliable.
Using Duo Mobile instead of SMS/text offers the following benefits:
- Duo Mobile is a “one touch” time saving solution, with no need to type verification codes.
- Duo Mobile can be used even when you don’t have a constant Wi-Fi or data connection, acting as a standalone remote key fob.
- You can rely on Duo Mobile when you are abroad, where SMS/texts may not work as expected.
- Using the standalone Duo app means your 2-Step Verification information won’t get lost in the SMS/Text stream you may have.
There are also additional disadvantages to using SMS/text for two-step verification:
- When problems with cell phone carriers arise, SMS/texts can be delayed, meaning you can’t log in when you need to.
- SMS/text has become an increasing target for exploitation by malicious parties. Fake SMS/text messages can be used to compromise and break into accounts.
- Depending on your cell phone plan, it may be changed to SMS/text.
Food to go? Duo Mobile is the fastest, most secure and most reliable way to perform 2-Step Verification when needed. If you don’t have it yet, why not start today?
For more information on using 2-Step Verification with Duo Mobile, see: https://www.isc.upenn.edu/how-to/two-step-verification-getting-started.