Using 2FA while traveling

Google Authenticator is the recommended method of generating your 2FA code. If you do not have a smartphone or tablet, you can use other methods of receiving or creating your 2FA code. (More information).


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Prepare to travel

Set up 2FA before your trip. This page will walk you through the required steps:

  1. Download and install Google Authenticator, the recommended method of creating your 2FA code.
  2. Activate 2FA.
  3. Print out your scratch codes and take them with you. Scratch codes are for emergency use when you cannot access 2FA codes through other mean. Unlike the codes from Google Authenticator, these scratch codes will not expire.
  4. Before traveling, assess whether you need to download the VPN client for your trip (more information). You will need to use VPN to:
    • Access a file-transfer server at UD
    • Access the copland server
    • Access resources restricted for on-campus usage.

Prepare your device

  1. Go to the app store for your Android or iOS device. Download and install the Google Authenticator app.
  2. A QR code scanner is required to set up Google Authenticator.
    • Apple iOS devices have a native QR code scanner.
    • If you are using an Android device, go to the Google Play Store. Download and install a QR code reader.

Register for 2FA

Make sure you have your smartphone or tablet with you as you follow the next steps.

  1. Use a computer connected to the internet to go to My UD Settings.
  2. On the Register for two-factor authentication page, select Google Authenticator app as the primary method under the Method for receiving authentication code section.
  3. Select Scan a QR Code as the configuration method. A QR code will appear below.
  4. Use the QR scanning app on your smartphone or tablet to scan the QR code. Follow the directions at the Google Authenticator help page to finish the configuration.
  5. In addition to selecting a primary method for generating or receiving your 2FA code, you must provide backup communication methods for receiving a 2FA code. This information is only used if the primary method is not available. Choose numbers or email addresses that you or a trusted person can access while you are abroad. Keep in mind that 2FA codes are time-dependent, so the backup methods should be ones that you can access (or have a trusted person access) very quickly.
  6. Click on the Scratch codes section. Doing so will reveal 10 one-time use 2FA codes that you can use while you are traveling. Print the scratch codes and take them with you on your trip.
  7. At the bottom of the page, click Finish & submit.
  8. Have a safe and secure trip!

Other tips

  • You can still use Google Authenticator while traveling, because the app works without Wi-Fi.
  • 2FA codes are time-dependent. When selecting backup communication methods, choose ones that you or a trusted person can access within five minutes.
  • Scratch codes are for emergency use when you cannot access 2FA codes through other means. Scratch codes will not expire, but each code can be used only one time. Using scratch codes from top to bottom and striking through used codes will avoid causing confusion.
  • Changing your 2FA settings will generate a notice sent to your UD email address.
  • Not sure if you are enrolled in 2FA? Log in to My UD Settings. Your 2FA status is listed under My account information.
  • 2FA is required for certain UD services for faculty and employees and for Student Financial forms. It will be required for all students by Jan. 3, 2018.
  • Use your device's time zone settings instead of manually entering a new time on your 2FA device. Codes are time dependent.
  • SMS and voice methods are currently restricted to US phone numbers. You may check with your carrier to determine if Wi-Fi calling is an option for your phone and location.

Details

Article ID: 9
Created
Thu 6/27/19 1:19 PM
Modified
Thu 6/9/22 11:31 AM

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2FA
2FA uses two factors to verify you are who you say you are. 2FA makes your personal information less vulnerable and helps prevent anyone but you from accessing your accounts, even if they know your UDel ID Password.