Multifactor Authentication – A Simple Step to Stronger Accounts

Our cybersecurity expert Mason has a few words on the importance of Multifactor Authentication. Find out what it is and why you should use it in your business in the video above. You can also have a read through what he says in the video below:

Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, is a simple cybersecurity measure that makes a huge difference to your online security. More than 99.9% of password breaches didn’t have MFA set up, so it’s definitely something we’d highly recommend you employ at your organisation.

MFA means using two or more verification processes to prove it’s really you logging into a system, account or application. The most common setup is using something you know (your password) and something you have (a code sent to your phone, or an authenticator app on your device).

Let’s break down the typical MFA methods:

  • SMS codes – A text is sent to your phone when you log in.
  • Authenticator apps – Like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator, which generate codes on your device.
  • Biometric login – Face ID or fingerprint recognition.
  • Security keys – Physical devices you plug into your computer.
  • Push Notifications: A notification is sent to your phone asking you to approve or deny login.

MFA is an easy win when it comes to cybersecurity. It’s fast and seamless to set up, and most major services have it as an option. Once in place, your accounts are a whole lot safer – it’s worth the effort!

Turning on MFA is easy. Most major services like email, social media and banking have the option in their settings. It takes a few minutes to set up, and then you’re significantly more protected.

Sure, it takes a few more seconds than simply typing a password in. That’s a small price to pay though for keeping your accounts protected and your identity safe.

Here’s what we suggest at Smile IT: If you can enable MFA, do it. And if you have any questions about MFA and other methods of keeping your organisation safe in the cyber jungle out there, we’re here to answer them. Get in touch today.

peter drummond

When he’s not writing tech articles or turning IT startups into established and consistent managed service providers, Peter Drummond can be found kitesurfing on the Gold Coast or hanging out with his family!

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