Your NC State Unity ID and password are the first level of defense in protecting your online university accounts. Duo, the university’s two-factor authentication (2FA) solution, is the second. But if you receive Duo security codes via SMS or text message, your information isn’t as protected as you might think.

Text messages are unreliable in the event of an SMS outage and are at risk of being intercepted by cyber attackers, resulting in your account and credentials being compromised.

For better security and more convenience, the Office of Information Technology recommends using the Duo Mobile app. The app will allow you to authenticate your accounts via push notifications or passcodes. Push notifications are as easy as pushing a button to approve or deny a login attempt. No Wi-Fi or cell service? No problem. Simply generate a passcode in the app.

• To activate Duo Mobile for the first time, see How do I add a new device to Duo?
• To reactivate Duo Mobile, see Reactivate the Duo Mobile App.

As a reminder, NC State will never ask for your password or security code, and you should never approve a 2FA push notification that you did not request.

For assistance setting up Duo Mobile, contact the NC State Help Desk via the NC State IT Service Portal or call 919.515.HELP (4357).