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As we know, traditional one-factor authentication systems require users to simply provide a username and password to access a network system or application. Username and password are easily accessible for a hacker to steal and gain access to your security system.
Multi-factor authentication requires users to verify their identity with two or more factors (something you know – like a password, something you have – like a physical device, and something you – like fingerprints). Game sonicwall MFA providing reliable proof that an authorized user is who they say they are. This is why MFA is a much more effective way to protect systems compared to just a username and password.
How MFA combats common cyber attacks
Cyberattacks mostly involve obtaining user account credentials. Multi-factor authentication requiring users to provide additional information or credentials beyond a username and password to access an account. Even if an attacker manages to steal a username and password, it is unlikely that they will also be able to compromise the additional authentication feature required by MFA. That’s why an MFA is perfect combat cyber attacks Such as:
Phishing
Phishing attacks are very common and usually very successful when the user does not have MFA. However, if the user has some form of multi-factor authentication, even if a phishing email is compromised, a hacker will not be able to access their account. This is because a phishing email does not provide the other authentication features required by MFA such as one-time passcodes, fingerprints, etc.
Keyloggers
Keyloggers can capture almost any passwords entered into a system. If a user has MFA enabled, it is not enough for the hacker to have access to just the username and password. If MFA is set up with a mobile authentication app, the authorized user needs that specific mobile device to sign in and authenticate the request. Without access to that device, cybercriminals cannot log in even if key loggers are installed on their system.
Credit materials
MFA is effective when it comes to credit stuffing attacks. Credential stuffing is when cybercriminals automatically and simultaneously try a list of stolen usernames and passwords on multiple sites. Because MFA requires an additional piece of information for authentication and login, hackers won’t be able to access your account.
Brute force attacks
Cyber attackers will use brute force attacks to try to find a username and password. But because they don’t know or don’t have the other authentication features required by the MFA system, they can’t access the account.
Man in the middle of an attack
MITM attacks are when a hacker or malicious program inserts itself into the interaction between users and applications and captures the information that users enter. Ideally, MFA requires users to provide credentials from another device. This can prevent hackers from intercepting or manipulating communications between the user and the authentication as they would not have access to that MFA device.
Many of these attacks are very common for cybercriminals in today’s world due to the increase in remote work from the COVID 19 pandemic. To reduce your vulnerability, you may want to verify add two-factor to your accounts to prevent account takeovers. Two-factor authentication should be seen as an investment in security and not as an inconvenience. The more steps you take to reduce your vulnerability, the better protected you and your assets will be.