Overview
As part of ongoing initiatives to strengthen security within Texas A&M University, all affiliates of the University will be required to move to Duo Verified Push as their primary method of authentication. This article provides information on this security project as well as the various methods that comply with it.
Verified Push Authentication Methods
In order to comply with Texas A&M System security controls, all University affiliates (e.g. students, faculty, staff) will be required to utilize Duo Verified Push and/or a more secure phishing-resistant authentication method (such as a YubiKey) as their primary authentication method. Duo Verified Push works via the Duo Mobile app, which requires a mobile device with an operating system is capable of running the app. More information about what the Verified Push system looks like can be found in this article: Duo - Verified Push and Risk-Based Authentication
The Duo Mobile app is supported by most smart phones and tablets released within the last few years. However, not all devices/operating systems are guaranteed to work. If your device does not support the Duo Mobile app, or you do not currently have a device that does, there exist alternative methods.
NOTE: Technology Services is unable to provide mobile devices or hardware tokens.
Yubikey
YubiKeys are hardware security devices that may be used as a substitute for Duo Verified Push. This article provides more context on what a Yubikey is and how it works: Duo - YubiKeys and Duo Hardware Tokens
You may purchase a YubiKey for use at the Software Center (https://software.tamu.edu/). If you do not wish to purchase a YubiKey, you can request that your department purchase one for you.
TrustKey
TrustKeys are a less expensive version of a YubiKey that can only be used for Duo authentication through websites (VPN and SSH are not supported). Unlike Yubikeys, Trustkeys can only be assigned to one account for the life of the device.
Trustkeys can be purchased through retailers like Amazon and need to be manually added to your account. Information on how to do so can be found in this article. Because of their limitations, TrustKeys are not offered for purchase through the University and do not have the same level of support available.
Further Inquiries
If you have questions about Duo Verified Push or the different methods of authentication, please contact Help Desk Central by phone at (979) 845-8300 or by email at helpdesk@tamu.edu.
NOTE: For Duo assistance, HDC may request that you provide visual verification in the form of photo identification over a Zoom meeting.