Did you know, computer programs that hackers use for brute force attacks are able to check between 10,000 to 1 billion passwords per second. A nine character password including an unique character only takes around 2 hours to crack. [1] By using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), you can prevent 99.9 percent of account compromising attacks.[2]
What is MFA?
MFA stands for Multi-factor Authentication, a method which requires the user to present multiple verification factors in order to gain access to a resource such as an on line account or an application. Instead of only asking for a username and password, MFA requires additional verification factors.
For the majority of MFA authentication methodology the additional information required can be broadly split into three types: things you know, e.g. a PIN, things you possess, e.g. a smartphone, and things you are, e.g. biometrics like fingerprints or voice recognition.
How does MFA work?
The most common MFA factors encountered by users are one time passwords (OTP). OTPs are 4-8 digit codes often received via email, SMS or a mobile app. Usually a new code is generated each time an authentication request is submitted, a new code can also be generated periodically. [3]
Why is MFA important?
MFA is a key component in enhancing your organisation’s security against cyber attacks. Usernames and passwords can be stolen by third parties as they are vulnerable to brute force attacks. Enforcing the use of MFA provides an additional layer of protection against cyber criminals, giving you peace of mind that your organisation is protected against one of the most common forms of cyber attack [3]
What is the difference between Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?
2FA requires the user to present two types of authentication such as password and an OTP. On the other hand MFA requires the user to present at least two types of authentication, most often more.
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References
[1] https://nordpass.com/blog/brute-force-attack/ accessed 18/05/22 12:30
[2] https://www.microsoft.com/security/blog/2019/08/20/one-simple-action-you-can-take-to-prevent-99-9-percent-of-account-attacks/ accessed 18/05/22 12:30
[3] https://www.onelogin.com/learn/what-is-mfa accessed 18/05/22 12:20
