Why are changes required?

The Parent Access Module (PAM) is a digital platform used by CMCB to enhance communication between parents/carers and the College. It provides real-time access to important information about your child’s education and wellbeing. including: attendance, reports, timetables, and school communications.

As part of the current security configuration for PAM, MFA is enforced for all parent accounts. MFA codes are sent via email to verify user identity during login. However, a significant number of parents have reported not receiving these verification emails, with BigPond email users being disproportionately affected.

Despite troubleshooting efforts, the issue appears to be related to email filtering, delays, or blocking outside of Catherine McAuley College Bendigo's direct control. As a result, parents and carers who need to access PAM for a range of everyday activities related to their child are being prevented and are increasingly requiring assistance from the College ICT Department.

What is MFA?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security measure that requires two or more proofs of identity to grant you access to an online program. Once set up, it usually sends a code to either a nominated mobile phone number or email address. MFA offers significantly more security and protection against potential criminals.

What is the solution?

In order to ensure that all parents and carers are able to access PAM, the College will remove the mandatory MFA requirement to that it is no longer enforced on all parents' accounts.

Parents/carers may voluntarily enable MFA if they wish to keep an extra layer of security on their account. However, parents and carers who are experiencing issues, particularly those with BigPond accounts, can access the system using their standard username and password.

Alternatively, those with BigPond accounts who would like to have the extra layers of security provided through MFA will need to create and apply PAM to a new email address that is not through BigPond. If this path is taken, please ensure that the College is informed of the new email address.

Summary

• MFA remains available as an optional security feature and is recommended.
• Parents are encouraged to use strong passwords.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) can be enabled at any time through your account settings.