While no cyber security method is foolproof, using two-factor authentication can add an extra layer of security to your online accounts. So how exactly does two-factor authentication work?
What Is Two-factor Authentication?
While complex passwords can help deter cyber criminals, they can still be cracked. Two-factor authentication further prevents cyber criminals from gaining access to employee accounts. Two-factor authentication adds a layer of security that allows companies to protect against compromised credentials. Through this method, users must confirm their identity by providing extra information (e.g., a phone number or unique security code) when attempting to access corporate applications, networks, and servers.
With two-factor authentication, it’s not enough to just have your username and password. You’ll need another “factor” to verify your identity to log in to an online account. This additional login hurdle means that would-be cyber criminals won’t easily unlock an account, even if they have the password in hand. A more secure way to complete two-factor authentication is to use a time-based one-time password (TOTP). A TOTP is a temporary passcode generated by an algorithm (meaning it’ll expire if you don’t use it after a certain period). This method lets users download an authenticator app, such as those available through Google or Microsoft, onto a trusted device. Those apps will then generate a TOTP, which users will manually enter to complete the login.
Why Two-factor Authentication and Password Management Is Important
As two-factor authentication becomes more popular, some states consider requiring it for specific industries. As cyber security concerns continue to grow and cyber attacks become more common, other states may follow suit. Even if it’s not legally required, ongoing password management can help prevent unauthorized attackers from compromising your organization’s password-protected information. Effective password management protects an organization’s password integrity, availability, and confidentiality.
Above all, you’ll want to create a password policy that specifies all of the organization’s requirements related to password management. This policy should require employees to change their passwords regularly, avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, and use special characters in their passwords.
While no cyber security method is foolproof, using two-factor authentication can add an extra layer of security to your online accounts. So how exactly does two-factor authentication work?
What Is Two-factor Authentication?
While complex passwords can help deter cyber criminals, they can still be cracked. Two-factor authentication further prevents cyber criminals from gaining access to employee accounts. Two-factor authentication adds a layer of security that allows companies to protect against compromised credentials. Through this method, users must confirm their identity by providing extra information (e.g., a phone number or unique security code) when attempting to access corporate applications, networks, and servers.
With two-factor authentication, it’s not enough to just have your username and password. You’ll need another “factor” to verify your identity to log in to an online account. This additional login hurdle means that would-be cyber criminals won’t easily unlock an account, even if they have the password in hand. A more secure way to complete two-factor authentication is to use a time-based one-time password (TOTP). A TOTP is a temporary passcode generated by an algorithm (meaning it’ll expire if you don’t use it after a certain period). This method lets users download an authenticator app, such as those available through Google or Microsoft, onto a trusted device. Those apps will then generate a TOTP, which users will manually enter to complete the login.
Why Two-factor Authentication and Password Management Is Important
As two-factor authentication becomes more popular, some states consider requiring it for specific industries. As cyber security concerns continue to grow and cyber attacks become more common, other states may follow suit. Even if it’s not legally required, ongoing password management can help prevent unauthorized attackers from compromising your organization’s password-protected information. Effective password management protects an organization’s password integrity, availability, and confidentiality.
Above all, you’ll want to create a password policy that specifies all of the organization’s requirements related to password management. This policy should require employees to change their passwords regularly, avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, and use special characters in their passwords.
The Last Word
As two-factor authentication is becoming both the norm and necessity, it’s also becoming increasingly important to stay abreast with the cybersecurity landscape in order to protect you and your business. For more information related to cybersecurity, password management, or cyber insurance contact an InsureGood Advisor today.
