Topics Map > Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA-Duo - Accessibility & Usability Information

This document details MFA-Duo specific usability and accessibility information including known issues, functional workarounds and how to get help.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a second login step after NetID login. This extra step helps to protect both your online identity and UW–Madison digital assets. MFA is continuously evaluated for usability and accessibility. Below are the accessibility and usability known barriers, functional workarounds, and how to get help. To view a listing of all MFA devices and features see MFA-Duo Device Options.  

How do I get help? 

For assistance, questions, or accessibility feedback, contact the DoIT Help Desk at (608) 264-4357 or email help@doit.wisc.edu. For more information regarding Duo Security product accessibility see Duo Security vendor accessibility information. 

Accessibility and usability barriers: Web application for new Duo Universal Prompt

Add a device modal

While navigating with a screen reader and keyboard, the tab order does not follow the logical and sequential order of the page.   The screen reader does correctly announce the Country code form field title before the form field itself. However, the screen reader incorrectly places focus on the form field for phone number before announcing the form field title.

Cross site

  • Language unspecified: When the language of a web page or app is identified, users with disabilities will be better able to understand the content.

  • Heading level missing content: Heading level 1 content is missing on most pages; however, a small focus indicator appears where the hidden content is positioned. This could cause confusion for some users.

Home page

The section of the app that shows a user’s current device is mislabeled as an “article.” Landmarks, such as this, must programmatically and accurately identify sections of a page and be announced through a screen reader to help orient users to a page and help them navigate it easily.

Accessibility and usability barriers: Token/Fobs are less usable

People with blindness or low vision may not be able to read the passcode on the Duo or OTP c100 token/fobs because:
  • the passcode characters are small the screen is not backlit
  • the expiration time for the passcode entry is short 
Additionally, the screen orientation is not clear, making it easy to input the passcode upside down. Users with motor impairments, tremors, or dexterity limitations may be unable to press and hold the button long enough to generate a passcode. 
Token/fobs can also get out of sync and stop working. This occurs when the user presses the button multiple times while not in the process of logging in. (See What if my token/fob stops working for more details.) 

More accessible options: 

Feitian USB Security Key (Desktop/Laptop users) 

For people who have difficulty using a token/fob, UW–Madison offers a device called a Feitian USB security key. This allows users to authenticate by inserting the security key into the USB port of their computer or laptop.

Duo Security Mobile App (smartphone/tablet users)

The Duo mobile app allows users to login to MFA using a randomly generated security code, or approve login via a push notification. 

How to get access to a Security Key or Duo Token/Fob 

Students

Students, to obtain a token/fob, please contact the DoIT Help Desk at (608) 264-4357 or email help@doit.wisc.edu. Students with disabilities can also request a token or security key at the McBurney Disability Resource Center, 702 W. Johnson St., Suite #2103, Madison WI 53715 on the 2nd floor. 

Faculty, Staff, and Researchers

Employees can get access to devices for MFA at their Human Resources Office. For questions contact the DoIT Help Desk at (608) 264-4357 or email help@doit.wisc.edu. 


Keywords:
multi-factor authentication usability access disability tactile blind mfa token hard of hearing assistive technology low vision low-vision motor impairment dexterity fob keyfob auditory cognitive 
Doc ID:
88623
Owned by:
MST Support in Identity and Access Management
Created:
2018-12-20
Updated:
2023-12-20
Sites:
DoIT Help Desk, Identity and Access Management