What Is Two Factor Authentication? Boost Account Security
Let’s understand the additional layer that keeps your accounts safe.
Two-factor authentication, sometimes referred to as dual-step authentication,n provides a layer of extra security to your account.
In simple words, it means that even if someone gets your password, they still need to cross one more barrier to get into your account.
So, just relying on one password, you add one more authentication process to improve the security of your account.
Two-factor authentication is a higher level of security as compared to that of Single-factor authentication(SFA).It is so because two-factor authentication requires a passcode at the initial step and a second factor either a security token or a biometric at the second step.
Is 2FA Necessary in Cybersecurity?
The passwords can be
- Guessed
- Stolen through malicious emails.
- Leaked in data breaches.
With the 2FA verification system, even if somebody knows your password, they still need a second step of verification to continue.
What are the Benefits of Two-Factor Authentication in Cybersecurity?
Here are the various benefits of using two-factor authentication
- A strong protection against hackers.
- Security of personal and financial details.
- Identity theft is almost negligible.
- Build your trust when you use online services.
How Does Two-Factor Authentication Work?
2FA works by combining any two of the factors mentioned below-
- Something you know- Like your passcode or your password.
- Something you have- Like a security token or an OTP.
- Something you are- Like your fingerprint, face scan, or voice.
Common Examples of Two Factor Authentication in Cybersecurity
Some common examples of 2FA are as follows –
You must have used 2FA at various places without even realizing it!
- ATM machines- You first insert your debit card and then enter your PIN.
- Online banking- You log in with a password and then enter a special code sent to you on your phone.
- Email or social media apps- You receive OTPs or one-time passwords for authentication.
Common Two-Factor Authentication Methods.
SMS or Text message codes
After entering a password, a special code is sent your mobile
via text. It is necessary to enter this text to complete the login
process.
- Pros: very easy to use.
- Cons: not the most secure( can be intercepted or sim-
swapped)
Authentication Apps
Some apps generate a time-based code every few seconds.
For example, Google Authenticator, Authy and Microsoft Authenticator. These apps work offline and are more secure than SMS.
- Pros- Secure, fast and easy to use.
- Cons- If you lose your device and the app hasn’t been backed up then it is very hard to recover the access.
Push Notifications
Some services available in the market send you a push alert to confirm if you are trying to log in. These services include Duo security or Microsoft Authenticator and they confirm your identity by sending a ‘YES’ or a ‘NO’.
- Pros- It is super easy and very convenient to use.
- Cons- Internet access or mobile data is required.
Email Codes
A one-time passcode is sent to your Email box and you are required to enter this code in order to confirm your login attempt.
- Pros-Simple to use.
- Cons- Less secure if your email account is compromised.
Biometric 2FA
This method uses your fingerprint, face scan, and voice for authentication purposes. Nowadays it is very common in phones and secure banking apps.
- Pros- Simple, convenient and very hard to fake.
- Cons- Only accessible in devices with biometric capabilities.
How to set up two-factor authentication?
Setting up two-step authentication is very easy and takes less than a few minutes.Many websites and apps offer it for free nowadays.
Follow these steps:
- Log in to your account.
- Go to security settings.
- Look for an option like two-factor authentication or 2-step verification.
- Choose the most convenient method for you (SMS,Email,app etc.)
Follow the above process to complete the setup.
Some platforms will also give you special backup codes. You must remember these codes.
Learn more about what is credential access in cyber security
Is Two Factor Authentication completely safe?
While 2FA provides high security to your account and information, there is a need to understand that no system is 100% perfect. There are still some things that you should be careful about:
- Social engineers or hackers might trick you in phishing scams to give your code to them.
- SIM swap attacks can hijack your phone number and receive your 2FA SMS codes.
- If you lose your phone or the authenticator app, you might get logged out.
Here are some Tips to Stay Safe in Cyber Threat World
- You should use authenticator apps instead of SMS if possible.
- You should never share one time passcodes with anyone.
- The backup codes should be secured safely.
- You should enable account recovery options in case you lose your device.
Hence, the conclusion
The internet and your accounts are full of risks, and relying on just one password is no longer enough. Simply adding a two-factor verification system instead of a single-factor authentication is a powerful step that can help protect your accounts from being hacked, even if the password is stolen or leaked.
Additional Guidelines as a Cybersecurity Expert
- Protects your personal and financial data from being stolen.
- Helps in preventing identity theft.
- Simple and easy to set up and use.
- If you still face the same issues, opt for advanced cybersecurity services from Cybersics. To know more about the services, contact our team.
- Offers a sense of relief as your passwords and accounts are safe and protected.
- If a few extra seconds can save you from losing your data and details, then it is absolutely worth it.
So take a moment to set up the two-factor verification for your important accounts. Your future self would be grateful to you.