Two-factor and multi-factor authentication helps protect personal and sensitive information, going beyond a username and password to help safeguard accounts with two or more authentication methods.
A username and password is a common way to secure information or permit entry to an online system. However, cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated.
They can use automated tools to predict passwords. Our latest consumer research found one in ten Australians uses a generic password. For example, ‘password’ or ‘123abc’.
The research also found 78% use the same password across multiple accounts. This can make it easy for cybercriminals to access a variety of credentials and accounts.
Two-factor and multi-factor authentication can help safeguard your information with robust security measures across your applications.
Two-factor and multi-factor authentication helps add an extra layer of security. If a cybercriminal discovers a password, they still need other information to access a user’s account.
Generally, two-factor and multi-factor authentication can be classified into three different groups. We explain these below.
This is a password or PIN number a user provides when accessing an account or information.
This can be a physical device, most often a mobile phone. It can also be a security token or smart card. This type of authentication may involve receiving a one-time password via SMS or an app. These include Google two-factor authentication or Microsoft two-factor authentication.
This is usually biometric data. It can be a fingerprint or facial recognition that is stored, confirmed and authenticated on your smartphone or device.
To help boost your cyber defences, here are some steps to consider:
A risk assessment helps identify where stronger authentication can enhance your cyber resilience. Consider where threats might come from and where you keep sensitive data.
As noted above, there are many forms of two-factor and multi-factor authentication. Consider your business needs as well as how your employees would use it. Their experience is also important.
There are also hardware tokens, which can receive one-time passwords, as well as authentication solutions such as Microsoft Azure and Okta.
Consider how two-factor and multi-factor authentication can integrate with your existing business software and employee devices.
Technology is only as good as the people using it. Provide training to your team on how to use two-factor and multi-factor authentication. And to only approve authentication requests they recognise. Plus, embrace opportunities to upskill your own knowledge in this dynamic and evolving landscape.
Discuss the importance of updating passwords. A password manager can help people create, save, manage and use passwords across different online services.
Learn more about developing a cyber secure mindset to upskill your team and help protect your business.
Cyber risks and threats are forever changing. Consider the effectiveness of your chosen authentication method regularly. And if needed, make adjustments.
Here are some ways two-factor and multi-factor authentication can help protect your sensitive business information:
If you’ve adopted remote working, people may access company systems using unsecure public or home networks. Two-factor and multi-factor authentication can help add extra layers of protection.
Same goes for accessing work assets on mobile devices. Learn more about how to protect workplace mobile devices.
Some businesses only require employees to use a username and password to access their emails. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are aware of this. Email is a common target for phishing attacks.
Two-factor and multi-factor authentication can help ensure the right people have access to business emails.
In some workplaces, people may use a PIN to access secure areas like server rooms. Using a smart card or authentication key can help further strengthen defences.
Two-factor and multi-factor authentication can help protect your most important business accounts. This includes senior leaders as well as people with privileged access to sensitive systems like IT and finance.
Beyond helping to enhance security, two-factor and multi-factor authentication has several benefits.
Regulatory standards outline the use of multi-factor authentication. It’s part of the Essential Eight mitigation strategies developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), helping to protect against cyber threats. Implementing stronger authentication methods may help boost your compliance
Two-factor and multi-factor authentication can also help safeguard against ‘credential stuffing’. This is where a stolen username and password from one login helps cybercriminals gain access to other online systems.
Simple passwords can be easy for cybercriminals to guess. But forcing people to use complex passwords can also create challenges.
Employees may struggle to remember them or write them down. This places them subject to compromise. Password managers help remove this burden while two-factor and multi-factor authentication layers extra defences in the event those credentials are compromised.
Implementing two-factor and multi-factor authentication is now more accessible for small businesses. Authentication apps for employees to confirm their identity are also more prevalent. This helps add extra layers of security where it’s needed most.
Two-factor and multi-factor authentication is a proactive measure. It helps your business stay compliant and aligned with best practices in modern cyber security.
Harmony Email & Collaboration helps secure your lines of business communication in-house and while working remotely.
By signing up for Cyber Wardens, a program from the Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia (COSBOA) that aims to educate businesses like yours on how to help fight online threats.
