In the age of password stuffing and automated attacks, strong passwords alone are no longer enough.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA), also known as 2-step authentication or two-factor authentication, has become a popular approach to account security due to its straightforward implementation and overall effectiveness in online environments.
When correctly enforced by security leaders, multi-factor authentication can be an excellent reinforcement of any existing organisational security strategy, protecting employees from malicious login attempts and providing IT professionals with systemic alerts when online accounts are suspiciously bombarded with failed MFA requests.
This blog will support security leaders in understanding multi-factor authentication as an additional security protocol, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses and providing top tips and tricks.
What is Multi-Factor Authentication?
MFA is a security method that requires two methods of login for the user to successfully access their account, adding an extra layer of cyber defence beyond just a simple password input by requiring a verification code from the account user to confirm their identity.
It is named, quite literally, after the two levels of authentication it requires for users to successfully log in.
- The first level of authentication is normally your usual login: for example, your username and password.
- The second level of authentication then prompts you to verify , using your email address, phone number, or an authenticator app on a trusted device to send you an authentication code unique to your account.
- Biometrics are also becoming increasingly common for identity verification, requiring a fingerprint or face scan from the user as a second level of authentication.
Some instances of multi-factor authentication may require even more levels of confirmation than this, though two is the typical amount for most secure organisations.
Benefits of Multi-Factor Authentication
Research shows that MFA blocks up to 99.9% of automated account attacks. It protects sensitive personal information, financial accounts, and emails, which are often used to reset other passwords.
MFA defends against phishing by requiring a code or biometric prompt that hackers do not have, making it far more effective than just a password alone.
MFA is also highly effective at reducing the risk of unauthorised access, even if passwords are compromised. By requiring a verification step beyond just the password, multi-factor authentication reduces the risk of phishing attacks and credential stuffing, in turn, ensuring the integrity of your business’s sensitive information.
Challenges and Solutions in Two-Step Authentication
| MFA Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Password reset complexity: Forgetting your password with two-step verification enabled requires two separate contact methods to reset it, creating potential access issues and unique password reset vulnerabilities. | Set up multiple recovery methods in advance (backup email, phone number, recovery codes) and store them securely to ensure account recovery remains possible. |
| MFA fatigue attacks: Users receive repeated authentication requests until they accidentally approve a illegitimate login attempt out of frustration or confusion. | Implement number matching or location-based prompts that require users to actively verify login details, and educate employees to reject unexpected authentication requests and report any suspicious activity. |
| App compatibility issues: Older applications or legacy devices may not support standard security codes, preventing access to services when two-step verification is enabled. | Generate and use app-specific passwords for incompatible applications, or upgrade to modern authentication methods like authenticator apps or hardware security keys where possible. |
Does my organisation need MFA or 2-Step Authentication?
MFA benefits organisations of all sizes and industries by strengthening security beyond passwords. It is especially valuable for organisations handling sensitive information, such as banks, healthcare providers, retailers, and public sector bodies.
Small and medium-sized businesses also benefit, as they are increasingly targeted by cyber attacks. With the growing use of mobile devices, MFA methods such as authentication apps or one-time codes provide secure and convenient access.
Two-step authentication is particularly important for services like online banking and payment systems, where protecting financial data and maintaining user trust is essential.
Which kind of MFA should my organisation use?
There is a wide variety of multi-factor authentication methods available for organisations, with **Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator, Okta Adaptive MFA and Microsoft Entra ID **being among the most popular.
The kind of MFA best suited to your business size, structure, and security requirements can vary, although the general recommendation is as follows:
- Authenticator apps, like Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, and Authy, generate time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) for two-step authentication, providing a secure method of verification. They’re straightforward and a popular choice for any business looking to introduce MFA, since employees already have access to a trusted mobile phone.
- Google prompts are a recommended second step for two-step verification, as they are easier to use than entering a verification code. Google prompts send **a **push notification to your signed in device, and are recommended for organisations who use Google accounts and workspaces.
- SMS-based verification is a common method for two-step authentication, but it has security vulnerabilities such as SIM swapping. Lack of phone service can also interfere with the efficacy of this verification method.
- Hardware tokens, like Yubikeys, are physical devices used for two-step authentication, providing a possession factor that enhances security. So long as employees remember to bring them in!
- Biometrics are a good solution to Passkeys do not need to be remembered or typed, allowing users to sign in twice as fast as using a password. Bear in mind that biometric security requires devices that can conduct face scans or fingerprint scans.
Enhance your Business Security Today
Multi-factor, or two-step, authentication is an excellent supplement to any business security strategy, reducing the risk of common cyber threats while providing a centralised way for your IT team to review employee login attempts and flag suspicious behaviour.
By choosing an MFA or 2-step authentication method most suitable for your team’s work style and industry requirements, security leaders can reduce unauthorised access and win client trust through the proven prioritisation of data security.
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