What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) using Okta Verify? Why do I need it?

Okta verify setup for new students or MFA resets, with screen shots

MFA using SMS will not be an option after June 9th, Setup Okta Verify

As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance cybersecurity and protect your accounts, starting June 9, 2025, all multi-factor authentication (MFA) will be required to use Okta Verify. At that time, SMS (text messaging) will no longer be supported as an MFA method.

Why This Change Is Happening

Text message-based MFA is increasingly vulnerable to phishing and SIM-swap attacks, making it a less secure option. Okta Verify offers a more robust and secure authentication experience and aligns with industry best practices for protecting personal and institutional data.

What You Need to Do

To ensure uninterrupted access to your Gwinnett Tech accounts, please configure Okta Verify before June 9. Setting it up early will help you avoid any delays or login issues on the day of the transition.

If you need help getting started with Okta Verify, follow the setup instructions:

Okta verify setup for new students or MFA resets, with screen shots

You can also get additional help setting up MFA using Okta Verify by contacting the Gwinnett Tech Student IT Help Desk. Stuhelpdesk@gwinnetttech.edu or 678-226-6407

Tech Support desk on campus, hours and location

All students are required to setup the Okta Verify app before June 9th, don't wait until the last minute.

Setup Okta Verify for multifactor authentication (MFA)

Okta verify setup for new students or MFA resets, with screen shots

When logging in to the Gwinnett Tech student dashboard for the first time you will need to setup multi-factor authentication.

Gwinnett Tech uses the Okta Verify for multifactor authentication (MFA) for students.

To set up Okta Verify you will need a laptop or desktop as well as your mobile device with the Okta Verify app installed. Okta Verify is available on iOS or Android devices including a phone, tablet, or iPad. Okta Verify will work on devices with or without phone service, you only need Wi-Fi.

A QR code specific to your account will be displayed on the desktop or laptop screen as you get to that step in the setup process.

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Additional security on Gwinnett Tech student accounts
Gwinnett Technical College has implemented additional security on all student email accounts. This is called Multifactor Authentication.

Gwinnett Tech uses the OKTA Verify app for multifactor authentication (MFA)

  • What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a more secure authentication process for connecting to a web service. It uses at least two out of three factors: something you know, something you have, or something you are.

Gwinnett Tech uses the OKTA Verify app for multifactor authentication (MFA)

    • The OKTA verify app is available for Android or iOS.

  • Why does GTC require MFA using Okta Verify for student logins?

    • This year saw a substantial increase in the quantity and complexity of malicious emails on the Internet. In addition, spammers have been increasingly successful in tricking account holders into releasing their passwords, compromising these accounts, which were used to send spam or other malicious attacks.

  • How does MFA using Okta Verify prevent unauthorized logins if the student’s login information has been compromised?

    • By requiring the OKTA verify app as an additional authentication requirement, MFA blocks access to criminals even if they have the student’s login information. If you get multiple authentication messages on your phone even though you aren’t logging in to your student account, change your password as soon as possible. You have likely compromised it in some way without your knowledge.

  • Can I use an alternate email address for MFA?

    • No. Gwinnett Tech only supports verification through the OKTA verify app.

    • If you are unable to log in with the new MFA system, Contact the Gwinnett Tech Student IT Help Desk. Stuhelpdesk@gwinnetttech.edu or 678-226-6407

  • Is there some alternative to the OKTA verify?

    • No. Gwinnett Tech’s access policy does not support any other authentication method.
  • What devices are compatible with Okta verify?

  • Will you disable Okta Verify MFA on my account if I find it inconvenient?

    • No. MFA using Okta Verify protects you, other students, faculty, staff, the school’s data, and others online. It has also been instituted as a required security policy at all TCSG colleges.

    If you need help setting up MFA using Okta Verify, Contact the Gwinnett Tech Student IT Help Desk. Stuhelpdesk@gwinnetttech.edu or 678-226-6407

    Tech Support desk on campus, hours and location

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If you need tech support with anything else, please let us know.

You can send us a message, give us a call, or come see us in person in the front lobby in building 100 on the Lawrenceville campus.

Tech Support desk on campus, hours and location.

Thank you

Student Tech Support

Stuhelpdesk@gwinnetttech.edu | 678-226-6407

https://gwinnetttech.edu/helpdesk

Frequently asked questions can also be found on our webpage.

https://gwinnetttech.sherpadesk.com/portal/

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