IT Help Desk

Important Security Updates to myNOVA/myVCCS – Effective Immediately

In order to enhance the security of user accounts, the VCCS has made several important changes to how alternative email addresses and mobile numbers are managed. These updates are effective immediately.

1. SIS Alternative Email and Mobile Phone Number Updates

• Updates to Alternative Email addresses through the Student Information System (SIS) have been disabled.
• Changes to the Mobile Number can still be made in SIS, but those changes will not propagate to myVCCS.
• These changes were implemented to prevent potential system exploitation.

2. New Procedures for Updating Alternate Email and Mobile Phone Numbers

• Manual update through myVCCS User Profile – the person icon in the upper right corner of myNOVA.
• Call the IT Help Desk – agents have been granted the ability to modify these two fields after verifying a user’s identity.

3. New Student Accounts

• New student accounts will still have an alternative email and mobile phone numbers added during creation.

4. Account Claiming Process

• The account claiming process still utilizes the alternate email and mobile phone number.
• Text verification now requires an eight-digit code (previously six digits).

5. SMS/Text MFA Changes

• SMS/Text MFA is no longer automatically enabled for new accounts.
• Users must activate it manually if they wish to use it.

The VCCS has also mandated that in certain situations, users may be asked to confirm their identity using a photo ID over a Zoom session. This will cause an increase in our handle times and extend user wait times. While we regret the negative impact this will have, we must comply with the state’s security mandates. To expedite the process, please have your photo ID ready when calling the Help Desk.