Remote Work: Keep secure using Multi-Factor Authentication

With a third of the population currently working remotely and great uncertainty regarding when this situation is going to change, organizations must adapt to support long-term remote working.

What is multi-factor authentication?

Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) is an authentication method that requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource such as an application, online account, or a VPN. MFA works by requiring two or more of the following authentication methods:

Something you know (typically a password)

Something you have (a trusted device that is not easily duplicated, like a phone)

Something you are (biometrics)

Why is multi-factor authentication an important cybersecurity measure?

The main benefit of MFA is it will enhance your organization's security by requiring your users to identify themselves by more than a username and password. While important, usernames and passwords are vulnerable to brute force attacks and can be stolen by third parties. Enforcing the use of an MFA factor like a thumbprint or physical hardware key means increased confidence that your organization will stay safe from cyber criminals.

Why should your organisation deploy multi-factor authentication?

The deployment of multi-factor authentication will reduce the risk of cyber-criminals breaching security and accessing your company's IT resources such as emails or internal communication platforms. It protects accounts fro being compromised if user inadvertently fall victim to a phishing email and provides their network credentials to a malicious actor.

Did you know that 80% of organisations that experienced a cyber-attack, could have avoided it if they had used Multi-Factor Authentication?

If you want to find out more about deploying MFA or other cybersecurity best practices for a modern, distributed workforce, simply leave us a message.