Use Two-Factor Authentication to Dramatically Improve Security

In light of the countless hacks that have been overtaking businesses all over the world, it grows increasingly apparent that passwords aren’t nearly as effective as they used to be at protecting accounts and critical information. Two-factor authentication can aid your passwords to create an incredibly efficient security solution for your accounts, credit card information, and much more.

Why Aren’t Passwords Effective?
That’s not to say that passwords aren’t important. In fact, they’re still imperative to keep your accounts safe. Instead of relying solely on passwords, you need to augment them with a two-factor authentication system. The reasoning is simple; passwords are easy to crack by modern hacking techniques. Some hackers are able to get a gullible user into handing over sensitive information by doing nothing but emailing them, claiming to be someone of authority. This is called a phishing attack, and they can be difficult to identify if you’re not paying attention to minor details.

Of course, any knowledgeable business professional wouldn’t fall for these simple tricks. This is why it’s especially important that you emphasize the importance of protecting your infrastructure to your employees. It’s your responsibility to make sure your business is protected from threats on all fronts; especially at the end-user level.

What’s Two-Factor Authentication?
Two-factor authentication is designed to make hacking your accounts as difficult as possible. By using more than one security credential, the idea is that a hacker will quickly grow discouraged. Hackers like easy prey, and if they have to work for it, it’s simply a matter of weighing risk versus reward. So, make it difficult enough for them to hack you, and hackers will probably leave your business be.

Some of the most popular methods of two-factor authentication include:

• SMS Message: A secondary code is sent to your smartphone. All you have to do is enter it when your account prompts you to and you’ll have access to your account.
• Email to a Secondary Address: If you’d rather not receive your authentication code with your phone, you can simply check your secondary email address for it.
• Voicemail: You can even have your security code sent to your phone’s voicemail, or in an automated voice call.
• Two-Factor Authentication Apps: Some accounts, like Google and Microsoft, allow for easy authentication simply by connecting your account to an application on your smartphone.

If you haven’t put too much thought into your two-factor authentication solution, Computerware can help you make the best decision for your business. We’re capable of equipping your company with the best security solutions on the market today. Reach out to us at (703) 821-8200 to learn more.