What is Multifactor Authentication?
Multifactor Authentication (MFA), also known as Two-Step Verification or Two-Factor Authentication is a security process that requires more than a username and password to verify the identity of a user.
The principle behind MFA is that an unauthorized actor is unlikely to be able to supply the factors needed for access. If, in an authentication attempt, at least one of the components is missing or wrong and the user’s identity cannot be proven with enough certainty, access to the asset protected by multi-factor authentication stays blocked.
The three most common kinds of factors used in MFA are:
1. Something you know - Like a password, or a memorized PIN.
2. Something you have - Like a smartphone, or a secure USB key.
3. Something you are - Like a fingerprint, or facial recognition.
When you sign into your Microsoft, work, or school account you enter your username and password. If you have MFA enabled, the first time you sign in on a device or app you enter your username and password as usual, then you enter your second factor to verify your identity.
If you are using the Microsoft Authenticator app as your second factor you first open the app on your smartphone. It then shows you a unique, 6-digit number that you type into the site, and you are in. If somebody else tries to sign in as you, they will enter your username and password but when they need that second factor they are stuck! Unless they have YOUR smartphone, they have no way of getting that 6-digit number to enter.
MFA is a more secure way of verifying user identity than the classic username-password combination. You used it to protect personal data from an unauthorized third party that may have been able to discover, for example, a single password.
Do you need help setting up MFA of home or business accounts? We can help you feel secure in today's cybercriminal filled world. Call us TODAY at 877-686-6642 to discuss your options!
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