Do You Need Two-Factor Authentication?

Do You Need Two-Factor Authentication?

Due to recent global events, there is an increased risk of cyber-attacks. At Elite Group IT we are now recommending all customers implement two-factor authentication on all systems that support it. Our Chief Technology Officer, Daniel Taylor, has put together this helpful guide to explain more.   

What is two-factor authentication?

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a specific type of multi-factor authentication (MFA) that strengthens access security by requiring two methods to confirm your identity.

These include something you know such as a username and password and something you have such as a smartphone app to approve authentication requests.

This process has been familiar for some time in day-to-day life for example to take money out of a cash machine you require a bank card (something you have) and a PIN (something you know).

Why use two-factor authentication?

The Office of Cyber-Security & Information Assurance state that “The use of a single password is no longer enough to protect your accounts.” and “2FA should be used wherever possible.”

2FA significantly improves protection against phishing, social engineering and password brute-force attacks. It secures you from attackers exploiting weak or stolen credentials preventing anyone but you from logging in, even if they know your password.

Do I need two-factor authentication with my existing Hosted Desktop Security?

With your data hosted in our secure Tier 3 ISO 27001 datacentres behind our enterprise level firewall clusters, you are already in a good position. However, this does not prevent access to data through password breach. 2FA adds an extra layer of protection. If an attacker manages to gain access to a user’s password through phishing, brute-force attacks or credential exploitation they would still not be able to gain access without having the additional device required to authenticate.

If you would like to add additional security to your IT systems or would like to find out more, then please contact us today by calling 01624 663333 or by emailing business@elitegroupit.com.

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