Logging in from off campus? MFA is now required

Set up and use SFU's Multi-Factor Authentication System to access Library materials

 You must first set up and enroll in SFU's Multi-Factor Authentication system and sign into MFA if you're:

  • off campus, and
  • logging into web-based or online SFU Library electronic resources such as ebooks or online journal articles, and
  • using your SFU computing ID to log in.

 See Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) from campus IT Services for instructions on setting up MFA.

 Need assistance enrolling in or using SFU's MFA system? Contact SFU IT Services for help.

If you are already enrolled in MFA and use it in conjunction with other SFU services, no action is required on your part.

Multifactor authentication is sometimes called "two step authentication".


Troubleshooting tips

 Seeing the message "Service access denied due to missing privileges"? 

If you know that:

  • you've typed in your SFU username and password correctly, and,
  • you're entitled to access online library materials
check that you are enrolled in MFA by logging into SFU's Multi-Factor Authentication self-serve system.
 
You are enrolled in MFA if you see the message: "You are enrolled in Multi-Factor Authentication".

 Using SFU's MFA for the first time and still seeing the "Service access denied due to missing privileges" message?

Try:

  • clearing your browser's history, cookies, and cache to start a fresh browser session or
  • try a different browser or
  • try using your browser in incognito mode.

Note that clearing your browser's history, cookies, and cache may log you out of websites.

Screenshot of "Service access denied due to missing privileges" message.
Review the troubleshooting tips on this page if you see the message "Service access denied due to missing privileges".

Why is MFA required?

  • Requiring MFA for off campus access helps us keep our licensed resources secure.
  • MFA was introduced to the SFU community in 2021. Most students, faculty, and staff have been using MFA with other SFU services such as email for several years. 
Date(s)
Effective August 12
Contact for further information
Library help: libhelp@sfu.ca