Multi-factor Authentication for Small Businesses

29/08/2017

According to Symantec’s annual Internet Security report 80% of breaches could have been prevented by simply introducing multi-factor authentication to small businesses. Find out how to secure your data with MFA.

What is multi-factor authentication?

Multi-factor authentication is a secure way of gaining computer access through providing two or more methods of authentication to validate a users’ identity to prevent a security breach. MFA adds an additional layer of security on top of your username and password, combining it with a second factor like a pin code.

An example of multi-factor authentication you may already use is when you log into your online bank account. Your bank may initially ask for a password and then for a code produced by text or a soft token that generates a one-time password (OTP). Other platforms that use multi-factor authentication would be email accounts, social media and websites. Many of these platforms have MFA available as a free feature from their security settings but often you have to activate them yourself.

MFA also be used to secure small business networks, remote access and Office 365 access. MFA can complement your normal authentication with a second factor effectively reducing the risk of data breaches caused by weak or leaked passwords. Thus making the life of the hackers much more difficult and reducing the risk of data breaches, cybercrime like fraud and social media account hijacking. With the increase of online threats and changes to GDPR due May 25^th 2018, keeping your data secure has never been more important.

What are the types of multi-factor authentication?

There are three main types of different information that can be used to authenticate your identity. Here are the options you can choose from:

Something you know

This can be a password, pin code or a secret question often your first layer of defence. Be sure to use three random words to create a strong password.

Something you have

Always a physical device this can be a token, mobile phone, SIM, USB stick, key fob or an ID card that verifies your credentials or provides a one-time access code.

Something you are

Biometrics - factors such as face or voice recognition, fingerprints, DNA handwriting or retina scan that requires physical proof of identity.

Time and location factors can also be used. For instance if you log on to an account and ten minutes later someone logs on from a different country the system can block them there and then.

NCI Technologies use multi-factor authentication to secure small business networks, remote access and Office 365 access. Our multi-factor authentication solutions offer the best protection available for your business.

To find out more how we can help securely protect your business data please contact us on: 01326 379 497 or email sales@ncitech.co.uk

You can find help and advice on activating MFA on sites and apps here.

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Sources

https://www.calyptix.com/top-threats/multi-factor-authentication-what-it-is-and-why-small-businesses-should-care/

https://www.networkworld.com/article/3102880/security/why-you-need-a-strong-authentication-platform.html#slide5

https://heimdalsecurity.com/blog/start-using-two-factor-authentication/

https://www.passwordday.org/

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