Getting to know more about Multi-Factor Authentication
A username and password are often used to log into an account. This method is currently considered archaic and old-fashioned. Cybercriminals continuously seek new ways to access accounts, even as technology becomes more advanced. Cybercriminals can easily access personal accounts by hacking a username and password. What can companies do to prevent this? Companies can use Multi-Factor Authentication as a strategy to secure access to an account. Do you know about Multi-Factor Authentication? Let’s get to know more about Multi-Factor Authentication.
What is Multi-Factor Authentication?
Multi-Factor Authentication or MFA is a technology to secure user access before gaining access to a website, mobile application, or other online platforms by performing several methods of proof of identity. At least two distinct verification elements are used to establish user identification. MFA creates a layered defense that makes it difficult for unauthorized users to access account information. If a cybercriminal successfully reveals one layer of password, they will have to breach at least one or two further levels. Because two security “gates” prevent cyberattacks on user accounts, user accounts become more secure.
Why is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) important?
Cybercriminals that use account takeovers as a cyberattack technique are among the most common cybersecurity dangers. According to Onespan, around 3.2 billion personal records have been hacked. Account takeover fraud is commonly carried out using cyber assaults such as phishing, mobile malware, and other techniques. The MFA method is designed to be more complex and more effective than simple authentication based on usernames and passwords. Currently, logging in using simple usernames and passwords is deemed archaic because of more advanced multi-factor authentication technology to prevent cyber attacks. Companies will also save millions of dollars that would otherwise be spent on cybercriminals.
What are the authentication factors used in Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
When logging into an account, using a password or PIN is stated to be the first element in determining the identity. The authentication procedure in MFA uses at least two technologies. What kind of authentication may currently be claimed to employ MFA? Here are three main factors to consider in the MFA.
- Something you know (knowledge factor)
This factor is usually a password, PIN, phrase-shaped password, or a series of related security questions and answers that only the user knows. To use the knowledge factor in the MFA, users must enter the correct match details of information previously stored in the app or website.
- Something you have (possession factor)
Before smartphones, users brought tokens or smartcards that generated a one-time password or passcode (OTP) that could be inputted into online applications. OTP is currently more convenient since security keys may be supplied to smartphones.
- Something you are (inherence factor)
Each person’s biometric data is unique because each person’s biometrics is distinct. People’s biometric data, such as fingerprints, retinal scans, face recognition, speech recognition, and behavior, vary from person to person. This biometric information might be used to verify identification when logging in.
The ultimate benefit of Multi-Factor Authentication
Companies use MFA as one of their IT security solutions. The following are the most important advantages of multi-factor authentication for companies.
- Increases security.
MFA can improve password security by requiring the user to go through another authentication step after entering their password. As a result, the account is more secure than ever.
- Completing compliance
MFA can help companies fulfill industry regulatory standards. In Europe, electronic payment services must fulfill stringent authentication criteria, so MFA is urgently needed to meet these regulations.
- Improve the user experience.
A different login experience with multi-factor authentication will improve the user experience. The company will get more benefits because the customer experience will be improved, and the security will be increased.
Multi-Factor Authentication may only be seen as an addition to the cybersecurity defense layer, but the impact will be greater than that. User accounts will become more secure, and companies will avoid security risks. The company can perfect the authentication system co-owned by Phintraco Technology, a subsidiary of Phintraco Group. Phintraco Technology is a provider of infrastructure IT solutions services, one of which is multi-factor authentication technology solutions.
Contact us at marketing@phintraco.com for more information from experts about multi-factor authentication.
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