M Key Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is the University implementing the M Key system?
How does it work?
Who will use it?
Can I still use my Enterprise password?
How do I request an M Key?
What is the “REMOVE” sticker on the M Key?
Can I take my M Key with me if I transfer departments?
How do I change my PIN?
Do I need to change my PIN on a periodic basis?
What if I left my M Key at home today?
What systems work with the M Key?
What systems won’t use the M Key?
Will I need my M Key if I work from home?
What if I lost my M Key?
Where do I return the M Key?
How long will my M Key last?
My M Key is broken. How do I get a new one?
Are those letters or numbers on the M Key?
Are M Key passwords case sensitive?
What is Two Factor Authentication?
It’s identifying (authenticating) you with two separate forms of identification: something you have and something you know. If you use an ATM Debit card, you already are using Two Factor Authentication where the card is something you have, and the PIN is something only you know. A Two Factor Authentication system is stronger than just a password system. Even if you lose your M Key, no one will be able to log in as you without knowing your PIN.
Why is the University implementing the M Key system?
The University is continually taking steps to ensure the security of our systems. Strong password rules and periodic password changes have improved the security of password systems. Unfortunately, nothing can make passwords strong enough. There are too many threats, both hardware and software, that can allow others to capture your password and then log in as you. Coupled with good security practices from you, the M Key system will significantly reduce the likelihood that someone can log in as you. That improves our security and reduces the risk of unauthorized access and disclosure of private data.
How does it work?
The M Key has replace your Enterprise password. You push the button on the M Key to generate the random M Key code. Type in the random M Key code immediately followed (no space) by your private PIN into the Password field on the login page. If you access multiple servers or applications and are prompted to log in, you must press the button on your M Key to generate a new M Key code for each login.
Can I still use my Enterprise password?
No, the Enterprise password is no longer an available option.
Who will use it?
Approximately 8000 people across the University are using the M Key. M Key is used for authentication to various applications; CS PeopleSoft (Student and HR modules), Financial PeopleSoft (EFS), Data Warehouse, EDMS, UNIX server & Oracle Database authentication, are amongst some of the applications currently require the M Key for authentication.
How do I request an M Key?
OIT Data Security can determine, based on your Access Request Form (ARF), whether or not you will need an M Key. If the access you have requested requires an M Key for authentication, one will be sent to you.
What is the “REMOVE” sticker on the M Key?
This is a protective film used to protect the display window during manufacturing and transit. You should remove this in order to clearly see the password on the M Key. You can slip a fingernail under the edge or put some tape over it and pull it off.
Can I take my token with me if I transfer departments?
Yes! If you will continue to access Enterprise Applications that require the M Key, you can just take it with you to your new department. If your new job duties won’t require you to use the M Key, please return it to:
OIT Data Security
2221 University Ave SE, 400 UOffPI
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Del Code: 2718A
How do I change my PIN?
Go to www.umn.edu/myaccount and click “Change your M Key PIN” (found under the “Passwords/Security” heading). You need to know your Internet password to change your M Key PIN.
Do I need to change my PIN on a periodic basis?
Your PIN (Personal Identification Number) does not expire, so you won’t be asked to change it. If you want to change your PIN, you can change it at www.umn.edu/myaccount. If you think your PIN has been compromised you should change it.
What if I left my M Key at home today?
Call the Help Desk (612-301-4357 or dial 1-HELP from a TC campus phone) to enable a temporary password. This will allow you to set your own temporary password at www.umn.edu/myaccount. The password will take the place of your M Key only for that day.
What systems work with the M Key?
CS PeopleSoft (all Student and HR modules), Financial PeopleSoft (all modules), EDMS, Data Warhouse, BPEL, all Oracle databases, and all UNIX servers are amongst the application that are using the M Key for authentication.
What systems won’t use the M Key?
Any system that only requires the Internet password for authentication (i.e.; email). ImageNow, ECRT, ITGC and PeopleSoft "two-tier" logins are amongst the applications that do not use M Key for authentication..
Will I need my M Key if I work from Home?
If the system you are accessing requires M Key authentication, then you need to use your M Key whether you work in the office or at home.
What if I lost my M Key?
Call the Help Desk (612-301-4357 or dial 1-HELP from a TC campus phone) to enable an extended temporary password. This will allow you to set a temporary password at www.umn.edu/myaccount. A new M Key will be mailed to you, which you will activate as you did for your original M Key.
Where do I return the M Key
If you no longer need to use the M Key, please return it to:
OIT Data Security
2221 University Ave SE, 400 UOffPI
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Del Code: 2718A
How long will my M Key last?
The battery in the M Key should work for several years, but eventually the battery will fail. The M Key display will begin to fade at least a month before it actually fails. If this is happening to your M Key call the Help Desk (612-301-4357 or dial 1-HELP from a TC campus phone) and tell them your M Key is failing. A new M Key will be sent to you at no charge.
My M Key is broken. How do I get a new one?
If your M Key fails to work, it will be replaced at no charge. Call the Help Desk (612-301-4357 or dial 1-HELP from a TC campus phone) and tell them your M Key is broken. 1-HELP staff can authorize the use of a temporary password you can use while your replacement M Key is being sent to you. OIT Data Security needs the defective M Key so a replacement can be obtained from the vendor. Please return defective M Keys to:
OIT Data Security
2221 University Ave SE, 400 UOffPI
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Del Code: 2718A
Are those letters or numbers on the M Key?
The M Key can display letters and numbers, but if there is any question use the number. For example, if you aren’t sure if it’s the letter “S” or the number “5,” it will be the number. This is true for the letter “L” and the number “1” and for letter “B” and the number “8.”
Are M Key passwords case sensitive?
M Key passwords are not case sensitive and will work using upper or lower case.