exclamationImportant Notice
UA will be transitioning from Duo to Okta Verify on September 14, 2026
Have questions about Okta Verify?
Check out our frequently asked questions below, and contact our IT Service Desk at 205-348-5555 with any additional questions.
What is two-factor authentication?
Two-factor authentication, also referred to as multi-factor authentication, provides an additional layer of security when logging in to a website. Two-factor is becoming the standard in cybersecurity. Google, Apple, and other services all have their own two-factor authentication methods. In short, passwords are no longer sufficient in protecting our sensitive data; we’ve got to add another layer of security to our accounts.
What are my authentication options?
- Okta Verify Push – if you have the Okta Verify mobile app installed on your smartphone or tablet, you can receive a push notification. From the app, you can approve or deny the login attempt.
- Passcodes – You can receive a passcode within the Okta Verify App, this does not require any wireless connectivity. You can also obtain a passcode through our self-service application. You do not have to have a smartphone for this option.
- Okta FastPass – you can use your device’s native biometric capabilities (i.e., fingerprint, face ID, retina ID) for instant access.
What if I need a more accessible option?
OIT understands that there may be moments when users encounter accessibility challenges that impede their ability to utilize multi-factor authentication methods effectively. If you require an accessibility exception to Okta Verify, we encourage you to reach out to us as soon as you can by submitting a ticket detailing your needs to ITSD@ua.edu. Our dedicated security team will review your request and work to provide a suitable solution tailored to your requirements.
How do I access authentication options other than Okta Verify push?
When authenticating with Okta Verify, each option available to you should display as an option when you log in. You will then see other options, such as passcode or FastPass.
Do I have to set up Okta Verify on a computer, or can I do it from my phone?
Unlike Duo, we recommend setting up Okta Verify on your phone exclusively. Rather than scanning the QR code, you can simply finish setting up directly in the mobile app. More information and screenshots are available on our activation tutorial.
What are Passcodes?
If you opt out of the Okta Verify Application push notifications, there are a variety of passcode options to utilize as your second verification method.
- Passcodes via Okta Verify App – If you have the Okta Verify app installed, you can receive a single passcode by tapping the empty passcode space in your instance of the mobile app. This code must be used immediately.
- Online-Generated Temporary Passcodes – If you do not have your device with you, you can obtain temporary passcodes. Each of the passcodes can only be used once and will expire after 72 hours. Visit our self-service page to generate these passcodes.
Forgot your device?
If you do not have your device with you, you can obtain a batch of temporary pass codes. To obtain them, please visit our self service page. You will login with your myBama username and password, and then you will answer additional questions to receive a batch of temporary Okta Verify access codes. Each of the passcodes you will receive can only be used once and will expire after 72 hours. *If you have lost your device, please report it to the IT Service Desk at 205-348-5555. We want to ensure someone else does not maliciously authenticate your account with your device.
Who can use Okta Verify?
Okta Verify is available to future, current, and former UA students, faculty, and staff.
Can I use Okta Verify without using wifi or cellular data?
Yes. The passcode option on the Okta Verify app does not require wifi or cellular connectivity; it even works on airplane mode. To use this option, visit the Okta Verify app on your smartphone, and tap the key icon to obtain a passcode. Enter the passcode into the Okta Verify prompt when logging into myBama.
Do I have to use Okta Verify to access Blackboard?
No, Okta Verify is not required to access Blackboard. You may bypass the Okta Verify prompt by visiting ua.edu and clicking the top-right icon to show more navigation items. From there, you can click the Blackboard icon to visit Blackboard directly. You can also bookmark the link ualearn.blackboard.com for a direct access to Blackboard.
What if I get a notification that someone is trying to access my account, but I didn’t request it?
Select “No, It’s Not Me” to deny access to your account, then promptly change your myBama password.
What if I am traveling abroad?
You have several choices when traveling abroad. Be sure to test them out before your travels so you can determine which solution is best for you.
- If you do not have your two-factor authentication device with you, please visit our self-service page to obtain temporary passcodes. These expire after 72 hours, so be sure to use one of these passcodes to register a multi-factor device you can use abroad.
- If you do have a smartphone/tablet, the Okta Verify mobile app can provide a six-digit passcode even if your phone or tablet doesn’t have cellular, network or wifi service. Launch the Okta Verify app, and press the hidden code icons to obtain a passcode.
Is the Okta Verify smartphone app available for iOS (iPhone/iPad) and Android devices?
Yes! Visit the app store on your smartphone to download Okta Verify.
What if I get a new smartphone or device?
If your phone number has not changed, download the Okta Verify mobile app on your new device and log in to your account.
If you have a new phone number, you will first need to obtain a temporary passcode (see the ‘What are Passcodes?’ section above). Log in at myapps.ua.edu and enter the temporary passcode. Choose your device from the list, and then follow the instructions to activate Okta Verify on your new device.
Can I have Okta Verify on more than one device?
Yes. You can add devices by visiting your Okta Verify settings.
What can the Okta Verify app access on my smartphone?
The Okta Verify smartphone application serves only to provide two-factor authentication. It does not access any personal information on your device, nor does it track your location.