Why You Must Use 2FA/MFA!

Two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) is critical for securing your cloud-based or remotely accessible systems by adding a second verification step (two-step) in the logon/authentication process.

The security of two-step verification lies in its layered approach. Compromising multiple authentication factors presents a significant challenge for attackers. Even if an attacker manages to learn your password, it is useless without also having possession of the additional authentication method. It works by requiring two or more of the following authentication methods:

• Something you know (typically a password)
• Something you have (a trusted device that is not easily duplicated, like a phone)
• Something you are (biometrics like fingerprints or facial recognition

Why is your bank ATM secure?  When you think about your ATM PIN, it’s easily guessable because it’s generally known to be a 4-digit number between 0000-9999.  Not exactly a great password!  However you also need your ATM card which only you have.  With respect to ATM withdrawals, Your PIN is useless without the card and the card is useless without the PIN.

Most modern cloud-based systems and services have an option to enable 2FA/MFA.  We recommend you turn these on now.  Check settings under your account or profile.

Typically it works like this: