Cyber attacks and data breaches are increasing in frequency and intensity. A password alone is no longer enough to protect you and your organization from cyber criminals. Brute force attacks in which criminals use software that can run thousands of password combinations a minute leave everyone more vulnerable. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a crucial shield to protect you and your organization, adding another opportunity to block intruders from your data and financial resources.
MFA security goes beyond simple passwords. MFA requires two or more verification methods before granting access. MFA is useful because it adds extra layers of protection, making it more difficult for unauthorized users to access your account. Imagine needing a key and a fingerprint scan to enter your home. That second step, the fingerprint scan, is an added authentication factor. It creates another barrier to intruders.
MFA is being used in various industries to enhance online security. Banking, Healthcare, Government, and E-commerce all deploy MFA to protect sensitive data, from financial information to deeply private personal details, to our national security.
How Does MFA Work?
MFA typically employs a combination of three factors:
- Something you know—password or PIN that is unique to every user.
- Something you have—a physical device like a smartphone or security token.
- Something you are—biometric data like fingerprints or facial recognition.
When logging into an account or system with MFA enabled, users first enter their password or PIN. Then, they are prompted to provide the second factor, such as a code sent to their phone or a fingerprint scan. Without the extra layer of authentication, they won’t be able to access the account. If a hacker obtained a user’s password, they would still have difficulty bypassing the second lock.
Types of MFA Security
MFA security has several parts, each requiring different user actions at each step. There are several types of MFA, each with its unique authentication method.
- SMS-Based—one-time code sent to your phone via text message.
- Email-Based—one-time code sent to your email address.
- App-Based—temporary code generated through mobile apps like Google Authenticator.
- Hardware Token—security tokens or smart cards that generate unique passwords.
- Biometric—fingerprint or facial recognition for verification.
Challenge Questions
Challenge questions require users to answer specific questions before accessing their accounts. These questions are typically personal and can only be answered by the account owner.
One-Time Passcodes
One-time passcodes are generated separately by a different process. As the second authentication step, they are sent to the user’s smartphone or email. They are unique and can only be used once.
Using Different Devices
Different devices may be involved in verifying account information. Each device requires its own form of authentication before a user is allowed access. Criminals would need to steal multiple devices to gain access to one account.
Additional Steps to Protect Your Information:
- Always use strong passwords unique to each account and not easily guessable. Strong passwords should include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Use at least 12.
- Be cautious of Phishing Scams. Never click on internet links from unknown sources, and don’t give out personal information.
- Add all available security options provided by the platforms or services you use. Enable two-factor authentication and biometric authentication, and set up security questions.
- Protect the devices you carry or use in public places. Set up a strong password or PIN and change it regularly. Enable device encryption and periodically update your device’s software and security patches.
- Always sign out of your accounts and devices when you are finished using them. This is especially important when using public computers or shared devices.
By implementing these additional security measures and MFA, you can significantly strengthen the protection of your and your organization’s sensitive data online. The extra steps may seem time-consuming at first, but your online security is worth the effort.
At Commonwealth Sentinel, we can evaluate your existing IT security and work with your team to improve it. We can also provide a complete source of services. At Commonwealth Sentinel, we stay focused on cyber security so you can focus on other things. Contact us today or sign up for a free consultation.
At Commonwealth Sentinel, we stay focused on cyber security so you can focus on other things.