By May 18, 2026, SMS text messages and phone calls will no longer be supported for Duo authentication. To maintain uninterrupted access to Maricopa Community Colleges' systems, you must switch to the Duo Mobile app or a hardware security key. 

SMS text messages and phone calls are less secure authentication methods. Attackers can exploit them using techniques such as SMS interception or caller ID spoofing. Moving to the Duo Mobile app helps protect your personal information and Maricopa Community Colleges' systems from unauthorized access.

SMS authentication is being phased out because it is more vulnerable to fraud and account compromise. Using the Duo Mobile app provides stronger protection for your personal information and for systems at Maricopa Community Colleges.

If you verify your login using SMS text message codes or phone-call authentication, you need to set up the Duo Mobile app or enroll a hardware security key as your authentication method before May 18, 2026. It is an easy process that takes 3-5 minutes.

Please check out the videos under the Options for Duo on this webpage to learn more about how to set up your new authentication method. 

We will support authentication options within the Duo Mobile app. These include:

• Duo Push (recommended): Receive a notification on your phone, and tap Approve to complete your login. This is the fastest method, and it requires a wifi connection.
• Duo Mobile Passcodes: Open the Duo Mobile app to generate a one-time passcode. This option works even if your device does not have an internet connection.
• Hardware Security Key: Duo works with hardware security keys (security key), such as YubiKey, using a modern, high-security connection standard. This ensures your login is fast and protected against unauthorized access.

After May 18, 2026, you will not be able to log in using SMS and phone-call authentication methods. You will need to contact your local helpdesk for assistance.

Most users will use the Duo Mobile app on a smartphone or tablet. If you do not have a compatible device, contact your local helpdesk.

You can add or update devices in Duo at any time using the Manage Devices option during login.

No. Maricopa Community Colleges does not receive any incentives or compensation for encouraging the use of the Duo Mobile app.

The change is being made because SMS text messages and phone calls are less secure authentication methods and are increasingly targeted by attackers. The Duo Mobile app provides a more secure way to verify your identity when signing in.

Maricopa Community Colleges understands that many employees use personal devices for authentication. The Duo Mobile app does not access personal content on your device, and it only sends a notification or generates a passcode for login verification.

For employees who cannot use a personal device, please contact your local helpdesk.

You can still sign in while traveling. The Duo Mobile app can generate passcodes even without an internet connection. Simply open the app and use the passcode displayed to complete your login.

This makes it possible to authenticate even when you do not have Wi-Fi or cellular data access.

No. The Duo Mobile app does not access your personal data, contacts, photos, or location. It is only used to verify your identity when signing in to systems at Maricopa Community Colleges.

The Duo app is a specialized security tool designed to keep both Maricopa and your personal data safe. It does not monitor your private files or personal activity. For more technical details, you can review the Duo Mobile App Overview or the Maricopa Duo Support Page.

If you need any assistance during the enrollment process, please reach out to your local Helpdesk.

Yes, this change applies to everyone (employees, faculty, contractors, and students) and anyone who accesses MCCCD-protected resources. We have sent direct communications to all students affected by this update.

Students without a compatible smartphone should contact their local Helpdesk to discuss alternative authentication methods.

To use the Duo Mobile app, your device must be running:

• iOS: 16.0 or higher
• Android: 12.0 or higher

If you don't see the "Approve/Deny" prompt after logging in, try these steps:

1. Check that your device has a stable internet or cellular connection.
2. Manually open the Duo Mobile app to check for a "Request Waiting" banner.
3. Ensure notifications are enabled for Duo Mobile in your phone's settings.

 If you are still having issues logging in, please contact your local Helpdesk.

The QR code appears on your computer screen during the Duo enrollment process once you select "Duo Mobile" as your method.

Note: You will not find the QR code inside the Duo Mobile app itself.

• Open the Duo Mobile app on your phone.
• Tap Add Account (or the + icon).
• Select Use QR code.
• Point your phone camera at the code on your computer. The account will appear instantly once scanned.

Return to the Duo enrollment page on your computer and restart the process. It usually generates a new code automatically. If not, please reach out to your local Helpdesk for a new activation link.

You cannot scan a code displayed on the same phone. Instead, select "Send me an activation link" to complete setup. 

If the scan succeeds, you should immediately see a new Duo account appear in the app. If not:

1. Ensure you have the latest app version.

2. Restart the app and try again.

3. If it still fails, contact your local Helpdesk for a direct activation link.

No. Duo QR codes are single‑use and expire once scanned or after a short time. If you need to re‑enroll, generate a new code or request a new activation link from your local Helpdesk.

All the methods mentioned below. Please work with your local helpdesk if you need assistance.

• HOTP (Authenticator app): Uses One-Time Password, you enter a 6-digit code generated by an app like Google Authenticator or LastPass Authenticator 
• Windows Hello: Uses biometric data (facial recognition or fingerprint) or a PIN tied specifically to your Windows device 
• MacOS Touch ID: Uses the fingerprint sensor on your MacBook or Magic Keyboard to verify your identity