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Frequently asked questions about multi-factor authentication (MFA)

Developed in collaboration with transplant hospitals, OPOs and Histo Labs, UNOS’ MFA uses a third-party service called Authy (a Twilio product) to provide a second factor for UNetSM users.

Authy is integrated into UNet in collaboration with Twilio and is a universal MFA application used for a variety of websites. Scroll down for frequently asked questions about MFA.

Important: If you’re planning to use a work device for Authy, you may experience restrictions on application downloads. Please contact your organization’s IT support staff to assist you as soon as possible.

About multi-factor authentication

​What is multi-factor authentication (MFA)?

When you log into a website or an application using your username and password, you are using single-factor authentication. MFA goes one-step beyond the single-factor process and utilizes a second factor (a.k.a. credential), making for a much more secure environment.

Developed in collaboration with transplant hospitals, OPOs and Histo Labs, UNOS’ MFA uses a third-party service called Authy (a Twilio product) to provide a second factor for UNetSM users. Authy is integrated into UNet in collaboration with Twilio and is a universal MFA application used for a variety of websites.

Will MFA be required to log into UNet?

Yes, MFA is required to log into UNet.

Important: If you’re planning to use a work device for Authy, you may experience restrictions on application downloads. Please contact your organization’s IT support staff to assist you as soon as possible.

Setting up your multi-factor authentication

​What do I need to get started?

Download Authy to any device(s) that you will have access to when logging into UNet. You can use personal mobile and/or laptop/desktop devices. Every time you log into UNet, you will need to use a device with Authy to provide a second login credential. 

 Example: if you frequently carry your personal phone with you when logging into UNet, your phone would be a good device to download Authy. 

Installation of Authy is required on a mobile device.  If you are unable to bring a mobile device into your workplace environment where you log into UNet, check with your site security administrator on an alternative method of receiving your second login credential. 

For minimum requirements, please click here. 

Downloading Authy to your mobile device:


Download Authy Desktop

 

Registering your Authy

I’ve downloaded Authy, what do I do next?

Once you have installed Authy onto your device, it will prompt you to enter your mobile phone number.

What mobile number should I use?

The number you choose should associate with a mobile number that is specific to you and not a shared mobile device. In most cases, this will be your personal mobile number.

If you select a shared mobile number that has already been registered by someone else, you will not be able to proceed until you enter a unique mobile number.

Once you enter your mobile number, you should receive a text within a few minutes with a link and code. You can either click the link to complete registration or enter the provided code into Authy.

You are able to download Authy to as many devices as you want, including personal devices. In order for MFA to work seamlessly, you must use the same mobile number for each download.

Every time you log into UNet, you will need to use a device with Authy to provide a second login credential. 

I see I have the option to enter an email address. What address should I use?

The email address you choose should associate with an account that is specific to you and not a shared email address. Entering your email is optional and is only used for administrative purposes. It will not be used when you log into MFA.

If you select a shared email address that has already been registered by someone else, Authy will not be able to register that email.

Connecting your UNet account to Authy

 

Step 1: Access your UNet account

Go to https://portal.unos.org and log in.

Step 2: Complete your registration

You will be prompted to enter a mobile number to register your Authy account within UNet. Please enter the same number you used to set up your Authy account.

Important: Once you click next, you must complete the registration process. If you do not complete registration, you will be locked out of your UNet account.

Step 3: Verify your number and confirm

A code will be sent to the number you provided. Enter the code and click register. Verify that you have Authy installed by clicking next.

Step 4: Approve the request in your Authy account

Open your Authy app and click Approve to connect your UNet account. If you do not see the approval screen in your Authy account, click on the bell icon in the upper-right hand of the screen to approve UNet.

You have now successfully enabled MFA. Every time you log into UNet, you will need to use a device with Authy to provide a second login credential.

As a reminder, you can download Authy to as many devices as you want, including any devices you will have access to when logging into UNet. Please remember to use the same phone number for any additional downloads of Authy.

Connecting your UNet account to Authy

 

Other questions

What if I can’t use my mobile device in the same workspace where I log into UNet?

An alternative method of security token delivery is being developed for users who cannot access their mobile device in the same workspace they typically log into UNet. Please consult with your site security administrator for more details. 

Can I switch to email because I don’t currently have my phone?

No, you may only use email for MFA when a phone is not allowed in your workspace.

What to do if I need to change my mobile number in Authy?

Please contact your UNet site security administrator. If your security administrator is unable to assist you, please email UNOS customer service at [email protected], or call 800-978-4334 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET.

I already use a different MFA application at my center. Can I just use the application I already have?

No, Authy is required for UNet.

I already use Authy at my center. How do I add UNet to the Authy application?

Simply registering in UNet (once MFA registration begins) with the same mobile number you used to register Authy will link your UNet account.

What if I have restrictions on application downloads on my work devices?

If you’re planning to use a work device for Authy, you may experience restrictions on application downloads. Please contact your organization’s IT support staff to assist you as soon as possible.

Can I add a backup Authy device in case I don’t have access to my primary device?

Yes! Just download the Authy app on to an additional mobile device and use the same phone number that is tied to your Authy account. The new app will then present you with various options to verify your account from your registered device(s).

If I don’t have access to a mobile device when accessing UNet, can I just use my desktop computer for MFA?

On July 19, 2024, Authy will no longer support their desktop application for MFA. Please consult with your site security administrator on an alterative method of token delivery if you are unable to access your mobile device with the Authenticator app installed on it. 

Find more information about the registration process here.

Can I use my landline for MFA?

No, you cannot use a landline for MFA when logging into UNet. Installation of Authy will be required on a mobile device.

When registering for Authy, you will need to provide a mobile number to complete the registration. The number you choose should associate with a mobile number that is specific to you and not a shared mobile device. You can use a personal mobile number to register.

Find more information about the registration process here.

I am registered as a non-UNet user, do I need to download Authy and use MFA?

Non-UNet users will not need to use MFA.

I didn’t find an answer to my problem. What do I do?

If you have questions relating to implementation, contact UNOS Customer Service at [email protected], or call 800-978-4334 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET.

Important: If you’re planning to use a work device for Authy, you may experience restrictions on application downloads. Please contact your organization’s IT support staff to assist you as soon as possible.

After I login with my username and password, I get a message that says, “Warning! Issue with registration. We were unable to link your UNet registration with an Authy account.” What do I do?

One of two things have occurred:

1. You have not downloaded Authy yet. 
To download Authy, please follow the instructions detailed here.

2. The phone numbers used during your registration of Authy and UNet do not match.
Please refer to this document for specific instructions on how to update your number.

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