Okta Single Sign-on (SSO) & Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

As an organization, we’re always striving to stay ahead of the curve with our security and ITRM practices.

What is new?

Today, we’re excited to announce that TRCA is introducing Single Sign-on (SSO) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solutions that will improve how we access our digital platforms and assets across the organization

What is MFA?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is an authentication method that requires you to provide at least two factors of verification in order to be granted access to a website, application or resource. MFA enhances cyber security by requiring these additional factors to verify a user after you input your username and password. You might have experienced this when your bank texts you a number to continue to log into your account, for example. In a few weeks, you’ll be able to sign into the new MFA dashboard and access all your work apps with the click of a button. This means you’ll no longer need to remember different website URLs or the usernames and passwords for each individual account.

Why?

The main reason for TRCA to switch to MFA is to strengthen our cyber security. MFA provides rigorous security measures and controls to protect the user’s information. This includes securing and verifying all communications with the MFA provider, Okta, securely storing customer data, and ensuring that only the right people in the organization can control the applications assigned. MFA and SSO have become a high standard for organizations due to increase in remote work as well as cyber breaches over the past year. This shift for TRCA not only will enhance the security systems we have in place but will also align us with industry standards in managing online risks.

What is Okta?

As the organization transitions into the new MFA you will see notifications come through from Okta. TRCA has selected Okta as the tool to enable the MFA solution. Okta’s job is to make your login experience as easy and secure as possible. Okta SSO works just like the current Microsoft SSO system. One key difference is that Okta will allow you to use a single username and password to log in to all of your business applications. TRCA’s current system only allows for a few select applications to be accessed via SSO. The new Okta system will be able to house all business and enterprise software seamlessly.

Once Okta SSO is up and running, we’ll let you know how to set up MFA on your account.

When?

On Wednesday, August 11, Okta will be live and all TRCA staff will need to activate their Okta accounts. Staff will receive another email with instructions for how you can activate your Okta account.

What’s next?

In the coming weeks, you will receive an email inviting you to activate your Okta account. Please ensure you click the Activate button, login and setup your profile which includes setting up a security question.