Every account is a potential target for cyber threats, from campus portals to personal email and social media. That’s why enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) across university systems and personal devices is a smart, proactive step toward protecting your data.

What is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), also known as Multifactor Authentication (MFA), adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts. Instead of relying solely on a password, 2FA requires two separate forms of verification before granting access: 

  • Something you know: like a password or PIN 
  • Something you have: such as a code from an authenticator app, a text message, or a physical security token 

Why is Two-Factor Authentication Important?  

  • Protection Against Password Theft: The second factor prevents entry even if your password is stolen or guessed. 
  • Safeguards Sensitive Data: Helps protect personal, financial, and business information from being exposed. 
  • Mitigates Phishing Attacks: Reduces the effectiveness of phishing schemes that rely on stolen credentials. 

Where should Two-Factor Authentication be enabled?

To maximize your security, 2FA should be enabled on any account with sensitive or personal information. This includes: 

  • University Systems  
  • Email Accounts 
  • Social Media Accounts 
  • Cloud Storage 
  • Banking Accounts  
  • Shopping sites that store payment information  

2FA is enabled at Chapman University by default. We encourage enabling it for your personal accounts. It is a quick step that delivers long-term peace of mind and is one of the simplest, most effective ways to secure your digital life.

Learn more by visiting Chapman University’s 2FA information page.