Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA or 2FA - 2-factor authentication) is a security process that requires more than one form of verification to grant access to an account or application. It is more secure than a password alone because it requires multiple types of evidence to prove your identity.

What is its purpose?

MFA improves security as it:

• Adds extra protection beyond just a password. Even if someone steals or guesses your password, they still can’t access your account without the additional verification factor.
• Reduces the risk of hacking which passwords alone are vulnerable to.
• Lowers the chance of unauthorised access.

How does it work?

Access is only granted after successfully providing at least two factors: -

• Something you know - password or PIN
• Something you have - phone, security key, authenticator app code
• Something you are - fingerprint, face recognition, voice

Why use MFA on all your logins?

Bowker IT recommend MFA is enabled where possible because it dramatically reduces the risk of unauthorized access. It provides a second layer of protection beyond passwords. If you use Office 365 or remote desktop as an example, we would highly recommend that MFA is enabled.

How can you set this up?

Compromised passwords are one of the most common ways hackers can get at your data; using MFA is one of the easiest ways to make it harder for them. Give the team a call and see what we can do for you.