Using a SafeID Hardware Token Instead of a Smartphone for MFA

Using a SafeID Hardware Token Instead of a Smartphone for MFA

Overview

Austin Peay State University (APSU) requires multi-factor authentication (MFA) to protect university accounts.

Students, faculty, and staff who need or prefer an alternative to using a personal smartphone for MFA may request a Deepnet Security SafeID hardware token through the GOVSTECH Help Desk.

A SafeID token is a small physical device that generates temporary, one-time verification codes without requiring a smartphone, cellular service, Wi-Fi, or a mobile application.

All SafeID token requests require IT Security approval before a token can be issued.

Available SafeID Token Options

Purchase a Token: $20

Users who prefer not to use their personal smartphones for MFA may request to purchase a SafeID hardware token for $20.

Student Fee Waiver

Students who do not have access to a phone may qualify to receive a SafeID hardware token without the $20 charge.

Fee-waiver eligibility is determined during IT Security review.

Temporary Loaner Tokens

Temporary SafeID hardware tokens may be available for circumstances such as:

  • International travel

  • Overseas military assignments

  • Lost, damaged, or temporarily unavailable phones

Loaner availability and return arrangements are determined during the approval and issuance process.

Step 1: Request a SafeID Hardware Token

  1. Open the Request a SafeID Hardware Token for MFA service.

  2. Select Request Service.

  3. Enter your APSU username and select your affiliation.

  4. Select the reason for requesting a hardware token.

  5. Provide any additional information relevant to your request.

  6. Submit the request.

Important: Submitting a request does not guarantee approval, a fee waiver, or a loaner token.

Step 2: IT Security Review and Approval

After submission, APSU IT Security will review your request to determine the appropriate option.

Depending on your circumstances, you may be approved for a $20 purchase, student fee waiver, or temporary loaner.

The GOVSTECH Help Desk or IT Security will provide additional instructions following the review.

Step 3: Receive and Register Your Token

Once approved, your SafeID token will be distributed primarily through IT Security. Tier 1 or Tier 2 IT Support may also assist with distribution.

After receiving your token, it must be registered to your APSU account.

Follow the existing registration guide:

First-Time Setup: Registering Your SafeID Hardware Token for MFA

If your account requires verification through a phone that you cannot access, contact the GOVSTECH Help Desk for assistance.

Step 4: Use Your SafeID Token to Sign In

Once your token is registered:

  1. Sign in to an APSU service using your APSU email address and password.

  2. When prompted for MFA, select Sign in another way, if necessary.

  3. Choose the option to enter a verification code.

  4. Press the button on your SafeID token to generate a code.

  5. Enter the code displayed on the token to complete verification.

Keep your SafeID token available whenever MFA verification is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a smartphone to use SafeID?

No. SafeID provides an alternative to smartphone-based MFA.

Does the token require an internet connection?

No. The hardware token generates codes without an internet connection.

Is the SafeID token free for students?

Not automatically. Students without access to a phone may qualify for a fee waiver, subject to IT Security approval.

Can I borrow a token temporarily?

Temporary loaner tokens may be available for qualifying circumstances, including international travel, overseas military assignments, and lost or damaged phones.

Who approves my request?

All SafeID token requests are reviewed and approved or rejected by APSU IT Security.

What if my token is lost or damaged?

Contact the GOVSTECH Help Desk for assistance. Identity verification may be required before your MFA methods can be updated.

Important Security Reminders

  • Keep your SafeID token secure.

  • Never share your token or verification codes.

  • Report lost or damaged tokens promptly.

  • Return temporary loaners according to the instructions provided at issuance.

  • Do not remove an existing working MFA method until your SafeID token has been successfully registered and tested.

Need Assistance?

APSU GOVSTECH Help Desk

Phone: 931-221-4357

Email: govstech@apsu.edu

Walk-Up Location: Morgan University Center Information Desk

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