BlueKey MFA: 5 things after you register


Five important steps to improve your BlueKey MFA experience

Although the initial registration and setup of BlueKey MFA can be a bit painstaking, DePaul users should see fewer login prompts and greatly improved security. In fact, MFA with the Microsoft Authenticator app stops 99.9% of malicious hacking attempts. If you have gotten to this article, you've probably already registered. Thank you. Increased authentication creates a more secure digital environment for everyone. Take these 5 steps, and you'll be all set for a relatively smooth experience with better protection from the bad guys.


1) Set your default sign-in method to "Microsoft Authenticator - notification"

You are required to select a default sign-in method during the registration process, but it’s highly recommended to double check this setting and make sure that it is set to the "Microsoft Authenticator – notification" option. Navigate to bluekey.depaul.edu/myaccount on your computer. Have your MFA verification method available. Select the “Security Info” button. Next to the “Default sign-in method” make sure that "Microsoft Authenticator – notification" is selected. If not, select change. This specific default method (using the app) is highly recommended for both its ease of use and level of security.


2) Additional verification methods

You may have input additional verification methods during the registration process. If you didn’t or you’re not sure, please visit bluekey.depaul.edu/myaccount. Select the “Security Info” button. On this page, you have the option to add more verification methods. Generally speaking, the more secure verification methods you can add, the better. Secure methods are used only by you, secured by passwords (if applicable), and stored in a secured location (if applicable).


3) Add Microsoft Authenticator to another secure device (if possible)

Add and register Microsoft Authenticator on an additional secure phone or tablet, or add a secondary phone number. A secure device is one that only you can access, is password protected, and stored in a secured location. By adding the app to another trusted device, you will have a backup in case something happens to your primary device.


4) If you’re getting a new phone, know the steps

If possible, don’t delete the Microsoft Authenticator app on your old phone before setting up the Microsoft Authenticator app on your new phone. If you still have a functioning old phone, it can serve as a verification method when setting up the new phone. This article provides instructions for setting up your new phone whether your old one is still functional or not (it’s easier if you still have the old one for setting up authentication.)


5) If you lost your phone, know the steps

Is your phone missing, dead, or broken? Do you need to got to class or work without the ability to verify your identity through MFA? You’ll need to contact the Help Desk at (312) 362-8765 or email helpdesk@depaul.edu. It’s important to know the Call Center Hours. Visit go.depaul.edu/helpdeskhours to check the Help Desk hours of operation.