As part of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding student data and ensuring a secure online environment, we are introducing 2-factor authentication (2FA) for all student accounts. This added layer of security will help protect personal information from unauthorised access and provide an extra level of privacy and safety for everyone. 

What Is Changing?

• 2FA will be required for all students when remotely accessing school systems that involve personal information, for example their Microsoft Office365 account.

• Once you log in with your usual username and password, you will be asked to verify your identity through a second method, such as a text message with a one-time code or an authentication app. 

• Please note you will only be asked to verify your identity when logging on from a remote site (i.e. when logging on anywhere other than on the school site).  

• Students will be asked to set up this new process by Friday 14^th February 2025 and the change will take effect on Monday 24^th February 2025. 

What You Need to Do: 

1. Update Your Contact Information: Please visit this link to update your contact information in preparation of 2FA becoming active. If the link does not work, please copy and paste this address into your browser: https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info 

   Note: click here for a guide

2. Enable 2FA: This will be done automatically for you. If you have not already completed step 1 above, you will be required to at this point. 
3. Test the Process: Once enabled, please log in to your school account (when away from the school site) to ensure that the 2FA process is working smoothly. If you encounter any issues, our technical support team will be happy to assist. Please email helpdesk@southwolds.uk with the subject header ‘2FA’. 

Why Is This Important?

Implementing 2FA is an essential step in protecting sensitive data. By requiring two forms of authentication, we are significantly reducing the risk of unauthorised access to your educational information. This is particularly important as we continue to rely on online platforms for communication, grades, assignments, and other essential activities.