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Google Authenticator is a software based mechanism that uses 6-digit one time secrets to verify identity. Multiple Applications implement the google authentication protocol and can be registered using the Google Authenticator method.

WSU Recommendation

WSU recommends use of Google Authenticator as an alternative to Okta Verify. However, Google Authenticator may not provide sufficient verification in some specific applications.

• Supports offline use
• Can be installed on multiple devices
• Does not rely on specific browser capabilities to work
• Good resistance to phishing attacks
• Depending on the app, automatically syncs to multiple devices
• Requires a TOTP app

How to Get (authenticator)

1. Use your device's App Store to find and install Google Authenticator (or another compatible product)
2. Ensure the app is ready to accept new authentication profiles

How to Set Up

1. Login to your account at login.wsu.edu
2. Click your name int he upper right, then settings
3. In the Security Methods, click the "Set up" or "Set Up another" box next to "Google Authenticator"
4. Authenticate to prove your identity
5. Click "Set up" to begin setting up the Google Authenticator method
6. Open the google authenticator app on your phone, then click the option to add a new profile  
7. Use your phone's camera to scan the barcode
8. Click Next in the okta setup wizard once Google Authenticator recognizes the barcode.
9. Enter the code provided by Google Authenticator into the Okta setup dialog

How to Use

1. Enter your username to login in to login.wsu.edu
2. Enter your password when prompted
3. When prompted to verify your account, if Google Authenticator isn't presented, choose "Select another Auth..."
4. open Google Authenticator on your phone
5. Enter the code provided by Google Authenticator into the Okta Login Widget and click next
6. Follow the prompts to complete the login.

Further Reading

WSU AG's Office - Will Using Multi-Factor Authentication Make my Device Susceptible to Public Records Requests?

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