September 30, 2021 (Updated October 7, 2021)

Download the Multi-factor Authentication for Office 365 Guide

Further securing Christian Horizons email with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

In light of the confidential information that the people who use our services entrust us with and knowing the increased risk of cyber security threats, we need your help securing our email with Multi-factor Authentication.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

MFA is an added level of security that prevents hackers from accessing your email or email account. MFA requires three things to verify someone’s identity to ensure the correct person is accessing email: a username, a password and a unique numerical code.

We understand that adding MFA may make it less convenient for Christian Horizons staff to access email, but there are many good reasons to secure our email further, such as:

1. Identity and account theft is an emerging threat. MFA makes identity theft more difficult.
2. MFA is already commonplace in your personal lives, with banking, social media, and other online platforms.
3. Implementing it at Christian Horizons is keeping up with IT security best practices so we can all safely use email to communicate and share information.

Once MFA is set up for you, there will be three ways to receive a unique number code to verify it’s you accessing your email:

1. Text Message
2. Phone Call
3. The Microsoft Authenticator mobile application on a personal Mobile Device (i.e. iPhone, Android)

The plan to implement MFA is developed. Instructions for you to set up MFA are available for download above. The rollout will occur by district or geographic areas, with two cohorts scheduled for each week.

Timelines

The onboarding of employees is spread out over six weeks by group, according to district. The proposed timeline is as follows:

The timeline is subject to change due to the chance of a high volume of helpdesk tickets. If the helpdesk is being overwhelmed or program supports are impacted, subsequent groups will be delayed.