The default 2FA options can incur data charges for text messages, phone calls, or accessing the Duo Mobile application. However, there are options to avoid this.
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Duo Mobile app
If you have the Duo App installed on your smartphone, you can open it and obtain the 6-digit code generated within the app, and use this in the Passcode option when prompted for 2FA. Your smartphone does not need an active cellular or wireless network signal for this to work, so long as the app has been registered to your 2FA account. For more information about the Duo mobile app, see this document: How can I install the Duo Mobile app?
Hardware Token
If you travel often or for long periods of time, you can purchase and use a hardware token and enter the 6-digit passcode from it. You can learn more about hardware tokens at What are 2FA hardware tokens?
Temporary Passcode
If you have a short term need, or do not travel often, you can use a temporary passcode. This process is briefly described below, and more detailed information is available at What is a 2FA Temporary Passcode and how can I use it?
Should you lose, misplace, or forget your 2FA device and can not authenticate, you have a couple of options.
Use NetID Center
- Visit the NetID Center and select Temporary passcode at the bottom of the page.
- If you have your 2FA device with you and are requesting a temporary passcode to use within the next 3 days, select Yes, I have my device.
You will be required to authenticate if you have your device. Your passcode will be displayed as well as the expiration date:
- If you don't have your 2FA device with you and are requesting a temporary passcode, select No, I don't have my device. This passcode will be sent to the Recovery Email address you set up with your Recovery Settings in the NetID Center. If you have not set one up, you will need to call your University Service Desk to get a temporary passcode.
- Once you receive that passcode please visit https://identity.uillinois.edu to set up your recovery email under the Recovery Settings.
- Go to your non-University email to get your Temporary Passcode. Email will be from noreply@uillinois.edu and subject will be UI Verify Temporary Passcode.
- To authenticate with the Temporary Passcode. Go to the application you are trying to access that requires 2FA. When authenticating select Temporary Passcode from the drop down. Then use the Temporary Passcode sent to email address and select Enter.
Use the Application
- Visit the application you are trying to access and at the bottom of the authentication screen, select Get a temporary passcode.
- Select Send passcode
- Go to your non-University email to get your Temporary Passcode. Email will be from noreply@uillinois.edu and subject will be UI Verify Temporary Passcode. Enter the code from email and select Enter.
If you no longer have access to this account, you can call your University service desk for assistance with a temporary passcode.
Cancel a Temporary Passcode
- Visit identity.uillinois.edu, log in, and under 2-Factor Authentication, select Manage my 2FA.
- Under My Devices & Settings select the + next to Temporary Passcode and then the trash can to delete/expire the code.
