Strengthening Security with Multi-Factor Authentication

Protecting sensitive information and data is a top priority for businesses. In an ever-changing digital landscape with cyber threats on the rise, traditional password-based security measures are no longer enough. Fortunately, there is a solution. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) offers an additional layer of protection to ensure only authorised users gain access to valuable data. In this blog post, we will cover what MFA is, the benefits to your business, and how ESET can help you implement it in your operations.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication?

Multi-factor authentication, often referred to as multi-layer or two-factor authentication (2FA), is a security system that requires users to verify their identity through multiple authentication methods before granting access. This adds an extra layer of protection beyond the traditional username and password combination, making it significantly harder for unauthorised individuals to breach an account or system.

The Benefits of Multi-Factor Authentication

With the increase in remote access working and an increasing digital dependence in the workplace, MFA is a crucial aspect of your cyber security plan. The benefits include:

• Enhanced Security: MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access. Even if one factor is compromised, the additional layers act as a barrier to stop potential attackers.

• Protection Against Phishing: Even if a user unwittingly provides their credentials in response to a phishing attempt, the second authentication factor acts as a crucial block.

• Compliance: Many industries and regulatory bodies mandate the use of multi-factor authentication to meet security standards. Adhering to these regulations ensures organisations are protecting sensitive information and maintaining client trust.

Multi-Factor Authentication examples:

• Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)

This method relies on information only the user should know, such as a personal identification number (PIN), password, or answers to security questions. Example: When logging into an online banking account, users may be required to enter both their password and a unique PIN sent to their registered mobile device.

• Biometric Authentication

Biometric authentication uses unique physical or behavioural attributes for identification including fingerprints, facial recognition, and voice recognition. Example: Some smartphones use biometric authentication, requiring users to use their fingerprint or face scan to unlock the device.

• Token-Based Authentication

A physical or digital token that generates a one-time code, usually valid for a limited time. Example: Security tokens, key fobs, or authenticator apps that generate time-sensitive codes for logging into email or cloud services.

• Device Authentication

Verifying the identity of a device trying to access an account or system. Example: Some organisations use device recognition to ensure that only authorised devices can connect to their networks, adding an extra layer of security for remote access.

The ESET Multi-factor Authentication solution

ESET Multi-factor Authentication is an effective mobile-based multi-factor authentication (MFA) solution that protects your organisation from weak passwords, unauthorised access and compliance with regulations. It’s also super easy and convenient to use with an uncomplicated set-up that’s simple enough for any small business to configure. Authentication only requires the user to answer a prompt sent to their phone. Moreover, it works on iOS and Android devices, as well as all platforms and services.

Here are some of the ways ESET protects your business:

Data breaches

By applying ESET Secure Authentication,ESET Endpoint Encryption, and ESET Full Disk Encryption, ESET’s MFA solution protects by:

• Adding multi-factor authentication to vulnerable communications such as Remote Desktop Protocol

• Adding multi-factor authentication to all utilised VPNs

• Requiring multi-factor authentication to log into devices that contain sensitive data

• Protecting sensitive data with ESET Full Disk Encryption or ESET Endpoint Encryption

Verifying user login

Shared computers in shared workspaces require verification of all parties logging in throughout the day. ESET Secure Authentication implements multi-factor authentication for desktop logins on all devices in shared workspaces.

Weak passwords

Overused passwords across apps and web services put businesses at risk. ESET Secure Authentication restricts access to company resources by leveraging multi-factor authentication. This reduces the worry and danger associated with shared or stolen passwords by requiring an additional piece of authentication, such as push-message approval.

Explore more of ESET Secure Authentication features here.

By embracing multi-factor authentication, organisations can enjoy peace of mind by strengthening their security position and safeguarding sensitive information from the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.