How to Enable 2FA/MFA on Your Workday Account: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on your Workday account is one of the best ways to protect your sensitive information from unauthorized access. 2FA/MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to provide a second piece of information (like a code from your phone) in addition to your password. Here’s a simple, detailed guide for anyone new to cybersecurity:

• Understand the Basics: 2FA/MFA means you need something you know (your password) and something you have (like your phone or an app) to log in. This makes it much harder for hackers to access your account, even if they know your password.
• Check If Your Organization Requires 2FA/MFA: Some companies automatically require 2FA/MFA for Workday. If you’re unsure, ask your IT department or consult with a readiness-assessment firm like OCD Tech for guidance.
• Log In to Your Workday Account: Go to your company’s Workday login page and sign in with your username and password as usual.
• Access Security Settings: Once logged in, look for your profile icon (usually at the top right). Click it, then select “My Account” or “Account Settings.” Find the section labeled “Security” or “Two-Factor Authentication.”
• Start the 2FA/MFA Setup: Click on the option to enable or set up 2FA/MFA. Workday will guide you through the process. You’ll usually be asked to choose a method, such as:
  • Authenticator App: Download an app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator on your smartphone. Scan the QR code shown on Workday with the app. The app will generate a code you’ll use to finish setup.
  • Text Message (SMS): Enter your mobile number. Workday will send you a code via text. Enter this code to verify your phone.
  • Email: Some organizations allow sending a code to your email, but this is less secure than an authenticator app or SMS.
• Verify and Complete Setup: After choosing your method, enter the code from your app, text, or email into Workday. This confirms you have access to the second factor.
• Save Backup Codes: Workday may provide backup codes. Write these down and store them in a safe place. You’ll need them if you lose access to your phone or authenticator app.
• Test Your 2FA/MFA: Log out and try logging in again. After entering your password, Workday should prompt you for a code from your chosen method. Enter the code to access your account.
• Keep Your Information Updated: If you change your phone number or get a new device, update your 2FA/MFA settings in Workday right away. If you have trouble, contact your IT department or reach out to OCD Tech for expert help.

Enabling 2FA/MFA on Workday is a crucial step for account security. If you need more help or want a professional assessment of your organization’s security readiness, consider consulting with OCD Tech.

 

Best Practices and Tips for Securing Your Workday Account

 

Securing your Workday account is crucial for protecting your personal and company information. Workday contains sensitive data including your personal details, payroll information, and potentially confidential company data. Following these security best practices will help you maintain a secure Workday environment:

• Create a strong, unique password - Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Aim for at least 12 characters, and avoid using personal information like birth dates or names.
• Never reuse passwords - Using the same password across multiple accounts increases your vulnerability. If one account is compromised, all your accounts could be at risk.
• Use a password manager - Tools like LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden can generate and store complex passwords securely, so you don't have to remember them all.
• Set up security questions wisely - Choose questions with answers that aren't easily found on social media. Consider using fictitious answers that only you would know.
• Regularly update your password - Change your Workday password every 90 days, even if your company doesn't require it.
• Be cautious with login links - Only access Workday through your company's official portal or bookmarked link. Avoid clicking on links in suspicious emails.
• Check for secure connections - Ensure the Workday URL begins with "https://" and has a padlock icon in the address bar before entering your credentials.
• Never share your login credentials - Even if requested by someone claiming to be from IT or HR, legitimate staff will never ask for your password.
• Be careful on public networks - Avoid accessing Workday on public Wi-Fi. If necessary, use a VPN to encrypt your connection.
• Keep your devices secure - Ensure your computer and mobile devices have updated antivirus software and the latest security patches.
• Log out after each session - Don't leave your Workday account open on unattended devices.
• Monitor your account activity - Regularly check for any unusual activity or logins from unfamiliar locations.

Phishing awareness is essential for Workday security. Cybercriminals often target Workday users through sophisticated phishing attacks. Here's how to protect yourself:

• Verify email senders - Check the actual email address (not just the display name) for legitimacy before clicking any links.
• Be suspicious of urgent requests - Phishing emails often create a false sense of urgency to bypass your normal caution.
• Hover before clicking - Hover your mouse over links to preview the URL destination before clicking.
• Look for warning signs - Poor grammar, generic greetings, and requests for sensitive information are red flags.
• Report suspicious emails - Forward potential phishing attempts to your IT security team immediately.

Keep your Workday profile information current but minimal. Regular maintenance helps ensure security:

• Update contact information promptly - Keep phone numbers and email addresses current for account recovery purposes.
• Limit personal information - Only provide what's required by your organization.
• Review privacy settings - Understand what information is visible to colleagues and adjust settings if available.
• Update security questions periodically - Change your security questions and answers annually.

Many organizations like OCD Tech recommend conducting regular security assessments to ensure your Workday implementation meets best practices. If your company hasn't had a recent security audit, suggesting one to your IT department could help identify potential vulnerabilities.

Watch for these warning signs of a compromised account:

• Unexpected password reset emails - If you receive notifications about account changes you didn't request, report immediately.
• Strange activity in your account - Unfamiliar changes to your profile or settings warrant investigation.
• Unusual login locations - If available, check your login history for access from unfamiliar locations.
• Performance issues - Sudden slowness or errors could indicate security problems.

If you suspect your account has been compromised:

• Change your password immediately - Use a completely new password, not a variation of your old one.
• Notify your IT department - Report the suspected breach as soon as possible.
• Review account changes - Check for any unauthorized modifications to your information.
• Scan your devices - Run a full antivirus scan on all devices you use to access Workday.
• Consider consulting experts - Companies like OCD Tech provide incident response services for potential security breaches.

By implementing these Workday security practices, you'll significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your sensitive work information and help maintain your organization's overall security posture.