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Cyber CEO – Multifactor Authentication
Welcome to Cyber CEO! In this blog, we’re diving into multifactor authentication (MFA), often referred to as two-step authentication. Here, we’ll explain what MFA is, how it works, and why it’s important for protecting your business against cyber threats. With phishing and password hacks on the rise, MFA adds an essential layer of security that can make all the difference between staying protected or falling victim to a breach.
What is Multifactor Authentication?
Multifactor authentication, or MFA, is a security measure that adds an extra layer to the typical login process. Instead of relying solely on a username and password, MFA requires one or more additional verification steps, which can include something you know (a password), something you have (a smartphone app), or something you are (fingerprint or facial recognition). This additional barrier helps protect against unauthorised access, especially in a time when phishing attacks and password hacks are becoming more common.
A common variation is two-step authentication, where only one additional step beyond the password is required. For instance, after entering your password, you might be asked to enter a code sent to your phone. When more than one extra step is used, it becomes multifactor authentication, which offers an even higher level of security.
Why is MFA Important?
With phishing being one of the most successful tactics cyber criminals use, MFA provides an added defense. It’s no longer enough to rely solely on passwords, which can be easily guessed, stolen, or phished. By introducing an additional step, MFA helps prevent unauthorised access even if a password is compromised, making it an important part of your business’s security strategy.
Common Types of MFA
There are several ways to implement MFA, each offering different levels of security. Here’s a quick overview of the most common types:
A code is sent to your phone via SMS or email. While this method is still common, it’s not recommended due to vulnerabilities in both SMS and email systems, making them less secure than other methods.
Once a more common solution, USB keys are becoming less popular. These devices can be stolen or misplaced, making them inconvenient and risky for many users.
The most widely used form of MFA is through smartphone apps like Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator. These apps are free and easy to use. After scanning a QR code during setup, they generate a time-based code that you enter when logging in to verify your identity. This simple step adds an enormous layer of security to your logins and is a must-have for business-critical services.
If you want to go beyond free options and add even more security, especially for Windows devices, a commercial solution like Cisco DUO is a great choice. For a small monthly fee, Cisco DUO offers comprehensive MFA, allowing you to secure not only services like Microsoft 365 but also your physical devices. Additionally, it provides reporting tools to track login activity, making it easier to detect potential breaches.
Multifactor Authentication and the Essential 8
MFA is one of the important security controls in the Essential 8 framework recommended by the Australian Cyber Security Centre. This framework highlights the most effective strategies businesses should implement to protect against cyber threats. While MFA is a must, we recommend considering all eight measures to ensure your business is fully protected.
Adding multifactor authentication to your security toolkit is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your business from cyber attacks. Whether you choose a free app like Microsoft Authenticator or invest in a commercial solution like Cisco DUO, MFA is an essential layer of security that no business should overlook. If you need help setting up MFA or implementing other cyber security measures, don’t hesitate to reach out.
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