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MULTI-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION (MFA)
FOR ALL EMPLOYEES
MFA: A Must-Have in Today’s Digital A Phased Approach to Success
Landscape The MFA implementation project was executed in four
In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, where well-defined phases:
threats lurk around every digital corner,
MFA has emerged as a vital shield for • Pilot in Selected Departments
safeguarding sensitive information. As our • Pilot in Selected Schools
reliance on technology grows, traditional • All Departments
passwords alone are no longer sufficient to • Mandatory Enrollment Districtwide
fend off unauthorized access. MFA adds an (November 1, 2024)
extra layer of security by requiring multiple
verification steps, making it significantly This strategic approach ensured a
harder for malicious actors to breach smooth and successful rollout, minimizing
accounts. disruptions and maximizing user adoption.
Why MFA? Reaping the Rewards
The widespread adoption of MFA stems from the The MFA implementation project has achieved its
realization that passwords are susceptible to various goals, bolstering the organization’s security posture,
risks, including password reuse, lack of complexity, enhancing user experience, and ensuring compliance.
and phishing scams. By implementing multiple By adding an extra layer of protection to sensitive
verification layers, MFA creates a formidable barrier systems, the School District has effectively mitigated
against unauthorized access. A common approach the risks associated with cyber threats, establishing
combines something the user knows (like a password) itself as a forward-thinking and security-conscious
and something the user has (like a security token or organization.
mobile device). This layered defense, also known
as “defense in depth”, significantly reduces the The success of this project underscores the
likelihood of unauthorized access, even if one factor is importance of a well-planned security strategy, clear
compromised. communication, and an unwavering commitment to
continuous improvement.
The District Takes Leading Role
Recognizing the critical need for enhanced security, Use the MFA Enrollment Portal Tile
The School District of Palm Beach County proactively For employees of the School District of Palm Beach
implemented MFA districtwide to protect sensitive County, remember to use the MFA Enrollment portal
information from unauthorized access and disclosure. tile to ensure your access to District applications and
The full-scale deployment was completed by contribute to a safer digital environment for all.
November 1, 2024, ensuring that all employees were
equipped with this essential security measure. Page 19
