Duo Multi-factor Authentication

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Duo is Randolph Macon College’s multi-factor authentication service. It provides an additional level of security to prevent unauthorized access to a variety of systems. Multi-factor authentication helps protect against increasingly sophisticated security threats, like phishing, and thwarts unauthorized use of your login credentials.

HOW IT WORKS

  • Sign-in with your RMC email address and password as usual when accessing college resources protected by Duo.
  • Confirm your login with an enrolled device when prompted.
  • If you did not initiate the push, deny access.

ENROLLING IN DUO

Before you can use RMC services that require Duo authentication, you need to enroll.

Before you start the enrollment process install the Duo Mobile App (iOS or Android) on your mobile phone or tablet. Enable push notifications once the app is installed following Duo’s iOS or Android instructions.

If your phone is not compatible with the Duo mobile app, please choose mobile device and enter your cell phone number with area code. For device type choose Other and then Automatically call this device from the pull-down menu.

To start the Duo enrollment process, open a browser on your computer that you are not currently logged into or an incognito window and sign into RMC Webmail using your RMC email address and password.  Duo will prompt you to start the setup process.  During the enrollment process you can register multiple authentication methods.  Methods supported include: Mobile App with Duo Push, tablet, landline, or security key.

We recommend you register at least two devices during the enrollment process, such as your mobile phone and your office phone/landline as a backup. We recommend registering a mobile phone with Duo Push as your preferred authentication method. To add, reactivate, or remove a device, please see visit Duo’s Guide.

Unified Prompt

Duo now provides a simplified and accessible Duo login experience that offers a redesigned visual interface with security and usability enhancements.

Here is an example of the Universal Prompt:

A screen displaying a Duo Push notification from Randolph-Macon College asks to verify identity by approving the notification sent to an iOS device ending in 7337. Options for approval or help are shown, accompanied by a link for training documentation.

For users who do not want to receive the DUO push, they will need to select “other options”:

A login screen displaying multiple authentication options: Duo Push, Duo Mobile passcode, Text message passcode, Phone call, Bypass code, and Manage devices. Accessible training and documentation are also available to guide users through the process.

DUO Verified Push Upgrade

Rather than texting a code to your phone for you to enter on your computer, Duo will show the code on your computer for you to enter into your phone when you accept the Duo alert. The requirement to enter a number into the phone ensures that you cannot approve a Duo alert unless you are the person who is logging in on the computer.

The login flow now looks like this: 

1. Log in with your RMC username and password
2. Duo displays a code on your computer screen. 

A Randolph-Macon College Duo Mobile verification screen shows a code (388) to be entered in the Duo Mobile app on an iOS device ending in 7337. Options for "Other options" and "Need help?" are visible, with clear documentation available for step-by-step guidance.

3. The Duo app on your phone asks you to enter the code that is on your computer screen.  You will enter the 3-digit code into your phone’s Duo app and then tap Verify. 

A login screen asking for a verification code for Office365. It instructs users to enter the displayed code for security purposes and not to use codes from texts or calls. There are text fields and two buttons, with additional documentation provided for further assistance.

The first time you use the verified push version of Duo on a computer, you will be asked if you are using your own device or a device that belongs to someone else.  If you are on your own device/computer, meaning that no one else can use it, select #1 in the screenshot below to remember your device to make future logins faster. If you are on a device belonging to someone else (a classroom or lab computer, for example) please select #2 in the screenshot below to make certain Duo will prompt anyone trying to sign in as you. 

A Randolph-Macon College login prompt asks if the device is personal. Options include "Yes, this is my device" and "No, other people use this device." For additional security training and proper use documentation, refer to the college's IT resources.

Traveling or in a location without cellular or internet access? If Duo Push or calls are not accessible, use a six-digit code generated by the Duo Mobile app to authenticate. Launch the Duo Mobile app on your device to get the authentication code, choose “Other options” followed by “Duo Mobile passcode” in the Duo prompt, put in the passcode, and select login to continue as usual. Click here for a Duo passcode video tutorial.

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Article ID: 2547
Created
Sun 1/19/25 4:55 PM
Modified
Sun 1/19/25 8:26 PM

Related Services / Offerings

Related Services / Offerings (3)

Enroll or re-enroll in Duo for access to protected RMC services