In certain circumstances, users may be eligible for an MFA exemption or accommodation. This article explains what types of exemptions are available and how the process works.
Detailed Information
Before requesting an exemption, review the accessible MFA options already available at UMS. See MFA Methods That Support Accessibility Needs and MFA Authentication Methods for details.
If none of the available MFA methods work for you due to a disability, you may be eligible for an accessibility exemption.
How to request an accessibility exemption:
- You cannot request an accessibility exemption yourself. Only the offices below can submit the request on your behalf.
- Employees and guests: contact the ADA Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services.
- Students: contact your Student Services office (varies by campus).
- Visit UMS Disability & Accessibility Services to start a request or find your campus contact.
What happens next:
- The accommodating office confirms your accommodation, then submits the exemption request on your behalf.
- The Information Security Office reviews the request, including an assessment of compensating controls, and approves or denies the exemption.
- Approved accessibility exemptions are reviewed annually and revoked when no longer necessary or when an accessible alternative becomes available.
Lab Computers, Instructor Stations, and Technical Equipment
Devices such as computer lab machines, instructor stations, or single-purpose research equipment may have physical limitations that prevent standard MFA methods, such as no Bluetooth LE or USB access for security keys. These devices will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Information Security Office for compensating controls.
Other Exemptions
Any other exemptions from MFA will be temporary and must be approved by the Information Security Office.
How to Request an Exemption
How you request an exemption depends on the type.
Accessibility exemptions: follow the steps in Accessibility Accommodations above. You cannot request an accessibility exemption yourself; the accommodation office submits it on your behalf.
Lab computers, instructor stations, technical equipment, and other exemptions: submit the request yourself.
Submit an MFA Exemption Request form. Be prepared to identify the specific barrier and any alternatives that have been considered. The Information Security Office reviews and approves these requests directly.
Environment
- Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD)
- All UMS applications using Entra SSO