Best Practices of Multi-Factor Authentication

Best Practices of Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA), also known as 2-factor authentication, is a way to ensure that someone accessing your account is you. It requires something you know (your password) and something you have (a physical token). This extra layer of protection makes it much harder for hackers to steal your personal information.

Credential theft is now more common than ever and is responsible for more data breaches than any other type of attack. Passwords are the quickest and easiest way to conduct many different types of dangerous activities, with data and business processes now largely cloud-based.

If a criminal logs into a user account with admin privileges, they can send phishing emails from the company account to staff and customers. They can also infect cloud data with ransomware and make monetary demands for its return. Using MFA makes it harder for cybercriminals to gain access to apps and devices as they would not have access to the MFA code. This provides a significant barrier to cybercriminals.

3 Main Methods of MFA

Compare the main methods of MFA to get the best-suited method for your use.

Two-Factor Authentication with SMS or Email

This form of authentication uses either SMS text messages or email. Text message-based solutions require users to receive a code via text message before logging into their account. Users must then enter the code when prompted by the system. Email-based solutions use a unique link sent via email to verify identity. Once verified, users can log in to their accounts without entering a password.

One-Time Password (OTP)

OTP is a one-time password that is generated by a device such as a smartphone or a computer. It is used to authenticate a user after verifying their identity with another method. This type of authentication is often used for mobile banking apps.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a more secure form of authentication that requires both something you know (a username/password combination) and something you have (such as a token). 2FA is typically implemented through a software application that generates a random number and sends it to the user’s phone. The user enters the randomly generated number into the app along with their username/password. If the entered numbers match, the user is authenticated.

Security Key

One key method of MFA involves using a separate security key that you can insert into a PC or mobile device to authenticate the login. The key itself is purchased at the time the MFA solution is set up and will be the thing that receives the authentication code and implements it automatically.

The MFA security key is typically smaller than a traditional thumb drive and must be carried by the user to authenticate when they log into a system. However, this key is what makes MFA such a strong security measure, as it adds an extra layer of protection that is difficult to bypass.

Most Convenient Form of MFA

MFA can often slow users down, which can be a problem if they need to learn a new app or remember a tiny security key. This user inconvenience can cause companies to leave their cloud accounts less protected by not using MFA. If you’re facing user pushback, the most convenient form of MFA would be SMS-based MFA. SMS text messages are not new for most people as there is no new interface to learn or app to install.

Most Secure Form of MFA

If your company uses a cloud-based accounting solution, it’s important to consider security. The most secure MFA would be the security key. A security key is a separate device that won’t leave your accounts unprotected even if your mobile phone is lost or stolen.

Although SMS-based MFA is convenient, it is the least secure option because there is malware out there now that can clone a SIM card. This would allow a hacker to intercept the MFA text messages meant for the user. Out of the three MFA methods, the most effective one against all types of attacks is the security key.

Get Help Setting MFA for your company

Multi-factor authentication is a key solution in today’s threatening climate. Reach out to us to discuss the barrier points and a security solution to better secure your cloud environment.