Why You Need Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Now

Whether you do it or not, you probably already know it’s in your best interest to update your passwords frequently. There are many tricks up hackers’ sleeves for finding out what your password is. And, even when you do frequently update them, we’re here to tell you it’s not enough. Hackers have simply become too sophisticated.

You need to think beyond updating your passwords and start adding an extra layer (or more) of security. For your personal accounts, two layers should suffice. For business purposes, you may want to consider more. We’ll get into that later. What you should focus on for your home network is two-factor authentication (2FA).

2FA requires users to go through a two-step process for gaining access to an account. Some methods are pretty simple, like an extra numerical code you have to enter. Others are more advanced, like Apple’s Face ID feature when you open your phone or a download a new app. If you’ve ever logged into a website, for instance, your bank, and received a message after entering your password that you’ll receive a text message with a code, that’s two-factor authentication. Your bank wants to make sure it’s actually you who’s accessing your most private information—your finances.

How Do You Activate Two-Factor Authentication?

Now that you know how helpful 2FA can be, how do you go about activating it? Luckily, many of your most frequented platforms have a 2FA option. You just need to visit the settings tab to activate this extra layer of security and choose your code or other method of 2FA. Here are some places you should check for 2FA:

• Your social media accounts
• Your email
• File sharing websites (Dropbox, etc.)
• Frequented shopping websites, like Amazon

Think of it this way—wherever you’re sharing private information, like your credit card number, files, etc., you need to protect yourself and important information from being compromised with an extra layer of security.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) simply adds an additional layer security to your accounts with one or more steps than 2FA requires.

MFA should be taken into consideration in places where private information is being stored. From a professional standpoint, there are a few industries that should absolutely be using multi-factor authentication to protect private and personal information. Take healthcare, for example. There needs to be multiple security measures in place to protect patient information from being accessed by those who shouldn’t be seeing it.

Our experienced team of managed IT professionals is here to help guide you through any questions you might have about two-factor or multi-factor authentication. We can also help you update your account settings where it’s needed. Give us a call to learn more at 412.342.3800 or send a note to support@midnightbluetech.com.