If a user falls for a phishing scam and their credentials are compromised, multi-factor authentication or two-factor authentication provide an additional safeguard against a breach.
MFA uses authentication factors such as a pin, an SMS code, an authenticator code and/or a biometric.
The more factors there are, the harder it is for an attacker to penetrate accounts and breach an organization.
With MFA active, if a hacker cracks a password, they still need at least one more item to be able to do any damage.
As the name implies, 2FA uses two authentication factors.
More cloud security coverage MFA vs. 2FA: Identifying the differences.
The terms 2FA and MFA are sometimes used interchangeably.
This is because 2FA is really a subset of MFA. 2FA involves only one additional authentication factor.
MFA is stronger than 2FA, but it also has limitations.
2FA may not be as strong as MFA, but it does have certain benefits.
2FA pros 2FA cons Most 2FA generally relies on the use of a smartphone as part of verification and hackers have learned how to compromise phones.
Organizations should gravitate toward 2FA for routine traffic that doesn't require high security.
In organizations where applications, systems and users don't deal with sensitive or confidential data, 2FA should be enough.
2FA promises a smoother and simpler user experience.
For organizational users, MFA can be more secure as it requires extra authentication factors.
Even at an individual level, a personal bank account should be safeguarded by MFA. MFA that includes a biometric is the ideal way to go for confidential and financial information.
For sensitive organizational files as well as people working in executive, IT, HR, financial and other prominent organizational positions, MFA helps maintain a higher level of security.
Many organizations don't yet use 2FA or MFA. The implementation of either one can be a major step toward increased protection.
MFA is the way to go for any organization that needs to protect confidential or sensitive information.
For those facilitating between 2FA and MFA a small difference in price and an additional implementation and maintenance burden on IT may be a small price to pay to prevent a serious breach.
This Cyber News was published on www.techrepublic.com. Publication date: Fri, 15 Mar 2024 15:43:06 +0000