How to Setup Google MFA (2-Step Verification) - Google Prompts Option

Overview

This document walks you through getting Google MFA configured to receive prompts within a Google app on your smartphone.  Google calls this 2-step verification.

Instructions

Google prompts work by sending a notification to a Google app such as Gmail on your smartphone when you sign in to a new device.  You then have to confirm it is you by tapping the "Yes" button.  If you receive one of these prompts and have not logged into a new device, click the "No" option and immediately change your password.

1. These instructions assume you have:
   1. already turned on Google MFA (2-step verification)
       
2. To use Google prompts, you need to have an eligible Google app installed on your smartphone and be logged into it.  Eligible apps include Gmail, YouTube, Google, Photos, Ad Words, or Smart Lock.  Use either the Apple Store or Google Play from your smartphone to download and install an eligible app.
    
3. Once the app is downloaded and installed, log into it with your SUNY Oswego credentials.  
    
4. You can now confirm that Google has your device listed to receive prompts. To do this:

• Select your profile icon from the upper right corner of the Google application you are using (such as Gmail).  Then click on "Manage your Google Account"

• You may be asked to verify your identity.  Enter your password.

• From the list of setting categories on the left side of the page, click "Security."  

• Verify that you see a "Google prompt" entry listed in your Google MFA (2-step verification) options.

• Google prompts are now set up to work with your Google MFA (2-step verification).  When you log into a new device, you will see a window like the following.  In this particular case, Gmail is the app that has been configured on the smartphone.  If this is a device you don't use very often, also make sure the check box next to "Don't ask again on this device" is UNchecked.

• In this case, you would open up the Gmail app on your phone and tap the "Yes, it's me" button.  If you receive one of these prompts and have not logged into a new device, tap the "No, don't allow" button and immediately change your password. Also, contact CTS so they can determine if your account has suspicious activity.

Need Help?

Need additional information or assistance? Contact CTS.