When you sign into an account; be it an online account, a computer account, or even your bank account, you are authenticating by signing in with your username and password. There are several methods of authentication such as entering a password, connecting dots in a pattern on your phone, or typing in a PIN. However you may or may not already know that your password or PIN number may not be as secure as you think.
That’s why many companies, and organizations are forcing their customers and employee’s to implement further security protocols with a method called Multi-Factor Authentication.
How Multi-Factor Authentication Protects You
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a way for an account to verify that you are indeed the right person logging into your account. Through various methods, hackers can cyber stalkers can steal your password, or brute hack their way into your account. Hackers can implement methods like Brute-Force, key stroke copiers, and other methods to gain access to online accounts. These methods work for all kinds of accounts from your Twitter account, Facebook account, and other social media accounts to your Online Bank account or work email.
Luckily most companies and organizations have multi-factor authentication available which can enable you to be able to secure your account and verify that it’s you logging in, and not a cyber-criminal posing as your account.
Multi-Factor Authentication can come in a few varieties. The most common MFA method is adding your mobile number to your account and then having it text you a 1-time use code to then login to your account. Many companies offer this level of MFA. However, it should be known that even this MFA method is susceptible to hackers as well. It is possible for cyber-criminals to spoof your phone number or get the MFA protocol to send them the code instead so they can access your account.
That’s why there’s an even better way to secure your accounts with MFA. Most companies allow their users to use an authenticator app instead to generate a unique code to login to their accounts with. Authenticator apps can be linked to your online account, and they typically generate a new authenticator code every 30 seconds so they can’t be re-used or kept for a long period of time.
With this form of authentication enabled, when you login to an online account you can launch your authenticator app, find the account you are trying to login to in the authenticator app, and then enter the code to login. There are several authenticator apps available, such as the Microsoft Authenticator. It’s a good idea to use an authenticator from a reputable organization however, as you wouldn’t want your authenticator app to be compromised as well.
By using an MFA method, you can be sure your online accounts are protected from most forms of authentication manipulation and brute force hacks. Natural Networks is a security-centered Managed Services Provider. If you want to learn more about how Natural Networks can improve your technology security, give us a call today!
