Introducing Trio 3FA

We all know that two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to computer systems, applications, networks, and servers. It combines something you know, like a password or PIN, and something you have, like your 2FA token (either a physical item or a smartphone app).

Well, if two-factor is good, then three-factor must be better!

U-M has announced a plan to pilot Trio, a three-factor authentication (3FA) system. 3FA keeps the previous two factors-something you know and something you have-and adds a third factor: something you do.

MC Clap Yo Handz!

Trio's implementation can include dance dance authentication (DDA) like StackOverflow previously implemented, as well as additional authentication options like moving your eyes in a specific direction, singing a specific song, or clapping your hands in a specific pattern.

April Dido, CEO of Trio Security, says, "Our customers are under attack all day, every day. I mean, Every. Damn. Day. Trio will absolutely help your IT staff sleep at night knowing they are safe from cyberattacks. And who doesn't love clapping their hands to the tune of `BINGO'?"

If the 3FA pilot is successful, plans to roll it out university wide will begin in the fall 2021 semester. Learn more by visiting the project planning website.

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