If you are getting a new mobile device, it is important to enroll it with SharkPass/Duo to avoid any potential service disruptions. If you still have access to your existing device, you can find instructions on how to enroll a new device on the SharkPass information website. If you need a new activation link, you can contact the Simmons Technology Service Desk or call 617-521-2222 for assistance with enrolling your new device.
Category Archives: TechNews
Important Sharkpass/Duo Changes
Simmons Technology partners with Duo, our two-step authentication vendor, to provide students, faculty, and staff with a secure and seamless login experience. As part of our ongoing effort to improve security, we periodically review and update our security controls. We are currently looking at ways to improve our security platform, and as a result, there will be changes to the way we connect to Simmons’ computing resources. We ask that members of the community pay attention to any updates and be aware of how these changes may impact them.
Universal Prompt
On January 10, 2023, Simmons Technology will be implementing the Universal Prompt for Sharkpass/Duo, which will change the appearance of the login process for Simmons resources. The new prompt will have a redesigned interface that is sleeker and more simplified. This change is part of our ongoing efforts to improve the user experience and enhance security.
What do I need to do?
You do not need to take any specific action in preparation for this change. The Universal Prompt will automatically choose Duo Push as your preferred authentication device when you log into a Simmons resource. We ask that you be aware that this change will take effect on January 10, 2023, and be prepared for a slightly different login experience. All device management functions will still be available in the new interface, but the way these features are accessed may change.
For more information about the Universal Prompt’s redesigned user interface, please visit the SharkPass information site.
Duo Mobile on Legacy Devices
Duo has announced that effective February 9, 2023, Duo Mobile will no longer be supported on devices running Android 8 or 9, or iOS 13 or earlier. This means that users will not be able to download the latest version of Duo Mobile on these devices, and they will no longer receive fixes or security updates for Duo Mobile. Support teams will also have limited ability to troubleshoot issues with Duo Mobile on these older operating systems.
However, Duo Push will continue to work on already-installed versions of Duo Mobile on these devices, and users will still be able to authenticate using Duo. Duo Mobile will continue to be fully supported on devices running iOS 14 or Android 10 or newer.
To determine which operating system your mobile device is running, please see these articles:
- Android: Check and Update your Android version
- iOS: Find the software version on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod
If you need assistance determining whether your device will be compatible with Duo Mobile after February 9, 2023, you can contact the Simmons Technology Service Desk or call 617-521-2222.
If you do not have a compatible device, you may be eligible for a free two-step verification hardware token. Please contact the Service Desk to request one.
These changes are part of Simmons’ ongoing efforts to improve security for our community members and our computer systems. Please be on the lookout for future communications as we get closer to the critical dates.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Richard Phung at [email protected] or 617-521-2692.
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October is CyberSecurity Awareness Month
See Yourself in Cyber. #BeCyberSmart.
Even though cybersecurity may seem like a complex subject, ultimately, it’s really all about people. This month we focus on the “people” part of cybersecurity, providing information and resources to help everyone make smarter decisions whether on the job, at home, or at school.
4 Things You Can Do to #BeCyberSmart
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (Learn more about SharkPass/Duo at Simmons)
- Use Strong Passwords (Learn more in our Information Security Policy)
- Recognize and Report Phishing (Visit the phishing information website)
- Update Your Software (Read more about how to check for software updates on your MacOS, Windows, Android, or iOS device)
About Your Role
When we say See Yourself in Cyber, we mean see yourself in cyber no matter what role you play. As an individual or consumer, take steps to protect your online information and privacy. Faculty, staff, and service providers can take ownership of their role by putting cybersecurity in place to prevent incidents while protecting the University’s brand and reputation. Administrators support critical operations and are a part of the network of functions and systems that others rely on.
Remember: your role plays an important part in ensuring cybersecurity for the larger ecosystem!