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About
More than a password: Learning about multifactor authentication
More than a password: Learning about multifactor authentication
More than a password: Learning about multifactor authentication
10/18/2022
What is Multifactor Authentication?
Multifactor authentication (MFA) is the process of securing online account and data through a layered authentication process. MFA requires the user to provide a combination of two or more authenticators to verify your identity before the service grants you access. Most users today utilize the basic username and password. MFA proposes security measures that does not just rely on a password. Microsoft states that MFA users are less likely to get hacked due to an unauthorized user requiring a second method of authentication.
How does MFA work?
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An online service will ask you something you know, such as a PIN number or password.
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Authentication will then verify something you have, such as an authentication application or confirmation text to your phone.
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That phone will then verify that access with something you are, such as a fingerprint or facial recognition to get access to the authenticating application or device.
Why should you enable MFA on your devices?
Implementing MFA makes it more difficult for a threat actor to gain access to information systems that contain your valuable data. MFA is a layer of defense in the event that your password is compromised through a phishing attempt.
Bad actors are increasing the capability of phishing and other methods as harvesting your passwords. MFA is easy to set up to make your login process seamless while adding a layer of protection to staying safe online.
Would you be interested in a training about MFA?
Help us help you prevent unauthorized access attempts and sign-up for a training on how to set up MFA with the link below. Our Office of Information Technology staff will be ready to assist with getting your account Cybersecurity aware!