In today’s world, we use multiple accounts and multiple devices for work, play, and everything in between. Companies that need to manage information security—which, let’s face it, is most companies out there—need to make sure that the people who are signing onto their network, systems, and apps are the people who are authorized to do so. Multifactor authentication (MFA) is critical to maintaining this secured access. In fact, there are many benefits to using multifactor authentication, including the following:
Additional Layers of Security
Multifactor authentication is much more effective than two-factor authorization when it comes to cybersecurity because it adds more layers of security. Instead of just using a password and one other form of authentication, such as a Time-based One Time Password (TOTP), they can also add on additional layers, such as fingerprint or facial recognition or Google Authenticator.
This works for both employees and consumers. It also ensures that even if a malicious actor obtains one credential, they will not be able to confirm their identity with the other forms of authentication. This is particularly effective when it comes to passwords, which are the least secure form of authentication.
When a password has been obtained by a bad actor, whether they have guessed it or stolen it, multifactor authentication makes it so they cannot use that password to gain access to sensitive systems and information because they don’t have any of the other forms of authentication required.
Works with Single-Sign-On Solutions
SSOs are ideal in industries and workplaces where multiple accounts and passwords must be maintained. SSO allows users to sign onto multiple systems and apps with a single password, which streamlines the login process so that it is more convenient and saves time and frustration. Multifactor authentication can be combined with SSO, requiring multifactor authentication one time for access to all required systems and apps, increasing security without sacrificing convenience.
Ensures Regulatory Compliance
In some industries, the use of multifactor authentication is required by regulators to ensure the security of sensitive information. An example of this is the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS), which requires multifactor authentication in certain situations so unauthorized entities cannot access payment systems. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) also require multifactor authentication to protect sensitive patient information.
Supports Mobility
With the growth in mobility and working remotely, it is more important than ever to ensure that those users accessing your systems and data have the authorization to do so, no matter where they are or what device they are using. Multifactor authentication ensures users on mobile devices can still securely access your systems and apps with ease.
Customizable and Scalable
Multifactor authentication comes with numerous authentication options, so you can choose which ones will work best to meet the needs of your users. In addition, multifactor authentication can be scaled to meet the changing needs of your business, allowing you to set up different credentials for access to different systems, depending on the user, and accommodate the addition of new users as needed.
In today’s technologically advanced world with multiple points of access to your systems and data, you cannot leave your security to chance. Remember that bad actors have access to the same technology that you do, so you need to get in front of them by establishing a virtual fortress around your systems and apps that requires multiple credentials to access.
Reach out to Platinum Technologies today to find out how we can help you improve your cybersecurity with multifactor authentication.
