How many times have you been asked to create a new password for an online account? I bet it's happened more often than you can count.
As we all know, passwords are not the most secure way to protect our online accounts. In fact, they're so common that many people use the same password for everything from social media to banking. This leaves us vulnerable to hackers who will try a multitude of different passwords until they find one that works.
In this post we will talk about Two-Factor & Multi-Factor Authentication and how they can help protect your accounts from being hacked.
What is 2FA?
2FA stands for Two-Factor Authentication. In short, 2FA adds an extra layer of security onto traditional online logins with just a username and password.
What is the difference between 2FA and MFA?
MFA stands for Multi-Factor Authentication. Essentially, MFA uses at least three layers of security, as opposed to two layers with 2FA.
How does 2FA & MFA work?
Two-factor & Multi-Factor authentication are forms of security that require you to provide both a password and at least one additional piece of information, often in the form of a code sent via SMS or email to your iPhone or Android smartphone.
Why are 2FA & MFA so important?
2FA & MFA prevent hackers from accessing your account even if they have stolen or guessed your login and password.
The importance of using Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication for all websites you currently have an account with can't be emphasised enough. They are two of the best ways to protect your email, bank and other accounts from hackers who may try to access your information.
However, it's not just protection from hackers and phishing scams - they also protect against identity theft.
You may have 2FA or MFA set up on some of your accounts already without even realising it.
How do I set up 2FA or MFA?
Normally you will find an option to turn on either Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication within the security settings for the app or software being used.
Follow the steps outlined by the software or app to get it set up.
Are there any secure 2FA/MFA apps I can use instead?
Third-party authenticator (TPA) apps, such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator or Authy, enable Two-Factor & Multi-Factor authentication, usually by showing a randomly generated and constantly refreshing code to use for authentication.
Used along with your password, this code is entered into the login screen to gain access to the account. Some password managers, such as LastPass, offer the service as well.
A benefit of these apps is that they usually continue to work even without an internet connection.
Suppose someone steals your passwords but doesn't have access to these additional pieces of information? In that case, they will be unable to get into your account.
In conclusion
If you haven't done so already, we highly recommend implementing either Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication to keep your online accounts safe.
There are many ways people can be compromised on the internet. We want you to know how to protect yourself from them all when browsing the web or logging into your social media accounts.