What is Multi-Factor Authentication:

Multi-factor authentication (MFA), has evolved from the days of two-factor authentication (2FA) often known as two-step verification or dual-factor authentication, in an effort to strengthen assurance around the positive authentication of an account being used to login to a system.

The rationale being the use of multiple factors such as something you have, something you know, and something you are becomes a strong chain of authentication elements that should not easily be compromised.  For instance, a user account credential such as an email address may be already in the public domain, a weak password may be guessed, but combined with a key, token or physical device which must be on the user’s person, creates a much lower chance of compromise.

There are many vendors today who operate MFA services on behalf of others such as the ‘Authenticator App’ from Google.

Why Do You Need It?

Integrating these technologies with your authentication process is a vital step in fighting Cybercrime and preventing a breach of your systems.

2FA adds another layer of security to the authentication process by making it more difficult for attackers to gain access to a person’s devices or online accounts because, even if the victim’s password is compromised, a password alone is insufficient to pass the authentication check.

The use of 2FA to control access to sensitive systems and data has been around for a long time. Online service providers are increasingly utilising 2FA to secure their users’ credentials from hackers who have stolen a password database or obtained user passwords through phishing efforts.

Benefits of MFA:

Security: MFA is a smart cybersecurity precaution that can help you limit unauthorised access to your personal account and reduce the threat of sensitive data theft. Even if hackers know your email and password, they won’t be able to access your account unless they have your smartphone if a ‘one time password’ OTP-based MFA is activated.

Low Cost: One of the most significant advantages of MFA is that it frequently is a very low-cost addition to your usual authentication method. Many well-known internet services provide this option at no additional cost. For example, you may protect your Facebook profile for free with two-factor authentication. Google also offers customers the option of adding two-factor authentication to their Gmail account for free. Other web programmes, on the other hand, may demand a fee to provide you with a higher level of protection.

Implementation: Another advantage of MFA is that it is relatively simple to set up. You must go to Settings, select the Security and Login menu option, and click the corresponding button to enable it for your Facebook account. Install a good cybersecurity plugin that enables MFA, such as Google Authenticator, to safeguard authentication, particularly of any admin accounts.

Contact the CANDA team to learn more about cyber security and two-factor authentication. We can advise you on—and assist you in setting up—the authentication method that works best for your specific circumstances as specialists in all things ICT security and risk management. Don’t get left behind when it comes to online safety!