As our use of the internet and web-based tools has expanded, it is easier than ever for an account to be compromised. Therefore, the Plainview-Old Bethpage school district is implementing multi-factor authentication on our accounts for an extra layer of security. Even if a hacker has our password, they need to pass another level of verification to gain access. From email, to banking, to social media, to cloud computing - we should enable it where we can to stay protected. 

Below are the steps needed to enroll your district accounts in MFA. Please follow ALL the steps below in order to successfully enroll your accounts in MFA.:

1. Download the Microsoft Authenticator App on your cell phone (using the App store or Google Play store on your phone)
   • The App looks like this:
     
2. Once you have downloaded and installed the Microsoft Authenticator App, go to a computer or Chromebook and complete both the following steps:
   • Enroll your account in Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication by following the directions included in the POB Microsoft Multi-Factor Enrollment Guide
   • Enroll your account in Google 2-Step Verification by following the directions in the POB Google 2-Step Authentication Setup Guide

Authenticator App Setup:

By installing an authenticator app on your phone, you will have an easy way to receive authorization codes whether or not you have cellular service. There are several authenticator apps available, and you are free to choose whichever one you prefer. We have created a setup guide that will guide you through installing the Microsoft Authenticator App. You may access the guide by clicking here.

Microsoft Multi-factor Authentication:

Once multi-factor authentication has been enabled on your Microsoft pobschools.org account, you will be prompted to follow a series of steps to enable multi-factor authentication. This includes following a series of steps to install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone. Once you have followed the series of prompts, your account will now be protected by multi-factor authentication. 

If you wish to enroll in MFA prior to the enforcement date, you may click here to visit the account settings page and set up your account with MFA through our recommended method using the Microsoft Authenticator App.

You may learn more about Microsoft's multi-factor authentication at the links below:

• POB Microsoft Multi-Factor Enrollment Guide
• Sign in experience after enabling multi-factor on Microsoft

Google 2-Step Verification:

When multi-factor authentication has been enabled on your Google account, you will be prompted to complete a series of steps to enroll in 2-Step verification. Please note that you WILL NOT be prompted to enroll on a Chromebook when logging in to your Google Account via a web browser. You must enroll your account in multi-factor ahead of the enrollment enforcement date. By doing this you will avoid any issues accessing your Chromebook or Google Account. When prompted for authentication options, you may choose to setup authentication utilizing the same authenticator app that you installed above for the Microsoft platform.

You may learn more about Google's 2-step verification at the links below:

• POB Google 2-Step Authentication Setup Guide
• To learn more, visit: Google’s 2-Step Verification - Why you need it, How it works, How it protects you
• To set it up, click here. *Please note that there are various ways for you to receive your verification codes; select the option that works best for the devices you use most.