Amshire IT’s Dave Taylor explains how multi-factor authentication can protect your data from cyber-criminals, even when traditional log-in credentials are known by the attacker.
Have you heard of multi-factor authentication, or MFA?
You’ve definitely come across it. When you’re logging into something you get a code in a text message, or generate a code on another device.
Some people don’t like it. But this one small security measure gives you huge protection.
Even if cyber criminals have your username and password, without access to the MFA code, they can’t log in.
Authentication could be through a secondary device, like a key fob, card reader, smartphone app or text message. Some technology can also use biometric factors: a fingerprint scan, facial or voice recognition.
The humble password is the weakest link when it comes to staying connected: yours might even be up for sale on the dark web! Adding a second hurdle to security measures provides an effective way to limit brute force attacks, and verifies the identity of those accessing your data.
Most apps and systems use MFA. We recommend you turn it on everywhere. A tiny bit of hassle gives you a huge amount of protection.
In your face, criminals.
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