Overview
This article will guide you through the basics of securing your UFV account; either as a periodic review or if you are concerned someone else may have accessed your account. From creating strong passwords to understanding multi-factor authentication (MFA), you can ensure your account and data remains safe.
1. Reset Your Password
Go to https://passwordreset.microsoftonline.com and enter your UFV email address. More info: Reset Your UFV Password
It's not safe to use the same password for multiple accounts. To create a strong and unique password, you can use a free online password generator (like this one from Dashlane). To make it even easier, use a password manager to store your passwords. More info: Passwords & Password Managers
2. Review Your Sign in Activity
Go to https://mysignins.microsoft.com/ and sign in with your UFV email address. You should recognize each activity here. If you don't, click the link below the activity that says "Look unfamiliar? Secure your account". More info: Review Your Recent UFV Sign-in Activity
3. Review Your Authentication (MFA) Methods
Navigate to https://myaccount.microsoft.com and sign in with your UFV account. Once signed in, click Security info in the left hand pane. You should recognize the MFA methods here. If you don't recognize (or don't use) one, remove it. More info: Verify, Update, or Reset MFA Methods
For more information about how MFA works to protect your account, see ufv.ca/mfa
4. Review Your Personal Accounts
It's a good idea to review the security of your personal accounts, too. Often attackers will use breaches or information from other sites (like social media) to target other accounts you own.
- Check if your email address has been included in any breaches using the Have I Been Pwned database: https://haveibeenpwned.com/ (For more information on Have I Been Pwned, see their FAQ here).
- Use a strong, unique password for every account. Do not use the same password for multiple accounts. For more information on creating strong password, and using password managers, see: Passwords & Password Managers.
- Wherever possible, enable and use multi-factor authentication (sometimes called second-factor or 2FA).
- For information on how attackers target social media, and what you can do to protect your online identity, see: Social media - from GetCyberSafe (Government of Canada)
More resources
For more information and resources, check out:
- Personal Computer Security: For information about personal device security, including antivirus options.
- Mobile Device Security: For information and tips on securing your mobile device (phone or tablet).
- Unusual Sign In Notification: If an unusual sign in is detected on your account, you will receive an automated email. Learn more about this email and what to do if you receive it.
- ufv.ca/mfa: For information about multi-factor authentication (MFA) and how it helps secure your account from unauthorised access.
- ufv.ca/email: For information on email security, including how to identify spam & phishing.
If you have any other questions or concerns, you can reach out to the Cybersecurity team: cybersecurity@ufv.ca or Report a Cybersecurity Concern.