Enhanced Security through Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Since passwords alone are no longer sufficient enough to provide adequate protection against cyber hacking,  Pennsylvania Highlands Community College (PHCC) is deploying a Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solution to enhance security for your PHCC account. In a nutshell, MFA is an added security measure to protect your login similar to how you would protect your bank account or credit card. PHCC will utilize Microsoft Office 365 to provide a two-factor authentication solution for all college users (faculty, staff, and students).  MFA works by layering multiple (usually two or more) methods (or factors) to authenticate your login attempt.

The following will be used as factors to authenticate you and allow access to the requested service.

  • Your PHCC username and password (something you know)
  • A phone (mobile or office) or a tablet (something you have)

Note: You can use an authenticator app on your mobile device which allows you to directly approve the sign-in attempt.  You can also choose to send a text message to your mobile device, or have the system call your office phone to provide you with a verification code.

Getting enrolled in MFA?

  • IT will enroll you in MFA for your account
    • Will be required for PHCC Employees
    • PHCC Students 
  • Users must have an active PHCC account
  • Multiple Factor registration via Enrollment of at least 1 mobile device such as phones, tablets, and/or other hardware devices

    • The Microsoft Authenticator App on your mobile device (preferred method)
    • A Text message with a code to your personal device
    • An email message with a code to your personal Email Address
    • A phone call at your desk/mobile phone

If you need assistance, please contact the Information Technology Help Desk at 814-262-6470 or helpdesk@pennhighlands.edu


Download the Microsoft Authenticator App from your favorite app store: