What is Multifactor Authentication?

Prove it’s you with two! … Two step authentication, that is.  MFA uses a combination of something you have and something you know or something you are to confirm you are who you say you are online.

MFA is a layered approach to securing your online accounts and the data they contain. When you enable MFA in your online services (like email), you must provide a combination of two or more authenticators to verify your identity before the service grants you access. Using MFA protects your account more than just using a username and password.

Your password isn’t protecting you the way you think it is. Especially if someone can guess your password from looking at your social media. But let’s say you have a complex password – or a password manager even – unfortunately malicious cyber actors still have ways to get past your password. And once they’re in your accounts… you can wave bye-bye to your money, and possibly your identity. So, what do you need? More than a Password! A second method to verify your identity.

Multifactor authentication (MFA) can make you much more secure. Taking the extra step beyond just a password can protect your business, online purchases, bank accounts, and even your identity from potential hackers.

Users who enable MFA are significantly less likely to get hacked. Why? Because even if a malicious cyber actor compromises one factor (like your password), they will be unable to meet the second authentication requirement, which ultimately stops them from gaining access to your accounts.

Online services want to make sure you are who you say you are, and—more importantly—they want to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your account and data. So, they are taking a step to double check. Instead of asking you just for something you know (e.g., a password)—which can be reused, more easily cracked, or stolen—they can verify it’s you by asking for another piece of information

How Do I Enable MFA?

Now that you know what it is, you’ll see prompts for multifactor authentication all over. So whenever available, be sure to opt in.

Start by looking at the security settings on your most-used accounts. You may see options to enable MFA listed as “Two Factor Authentication,” “Multifactor Authentication,” or “Two Step Factor Authentication.” There are many ways you may be asked to provide a second form of authentication.

For additional information on recommended forms of MFA, see CISA’s MFA hierarchy graphic, which sorts all the MFA types into tiers (strongest to weak).

Source: Cisa.gov/

Questions? Contact a CCNB representative today.

______________________________

CCNB will never ask for your account number, social security number, or PIN over the phone or through email or text message. If you ever have any questions about the legitimacy of any information you receive, a representative will be glad to answer any questions you may have.