Digital Nomads

Do you know how secure your online accounts are? If you are only using a username and password to log in, you are putting your personal and financial information at risk. Hackers can easily crack or steal your passwords and access your accounts without your knowledge. Check out our previous article on how easy it is to crack passwords.

In fact, according to Norton, there are around 2200 cyberattacks per day, which equates to more than 800,000 people being hacked each year.

That’s why you need multifactor authentication, a security technology that adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts. This post will explain what multifactor authentication is, how it works, why you need it, and how to set it up.

What is Multifactor Authentication?

Multifactor authentication (MFA) is a security technology that requires multiple authentication methods to verify a user’s identity. It creates a layered defence that makes it more difficult for an unauthorised person to gain access to your accounts.

Three types of authentication factors can be used:

1. Something you know, such as a password, a PIN, or a security question.
2. Something you have, such as a phone, a token, or a smart card.
3. Something you are, such as a fingerprint, or a face

MFA combines two or more of these factors to create a stronger authentication process. For example, you might need to enter your password and then a code that is sent to your phone or scan your fingerprint and use a token.

How Does Multifactor Authentication Work?

The most common way that MFA works is by sending a one-time code to your phone, email, or authentication app after you enter your username and password. This code is valid only for a short period and can only be used once. You need to enter this code to complete the login process. This way, even if a hacker gets your password, they won’t be able to log in without the code.

Some services also offer other options for MFA, such as using a physical device like a USB key or a smart card or using biometric features like your fingerprint or your face. These options are more secure than codes, but they might require additional hardware or software.

Why Do We Need Multifactor Authentication?

MFA is essential for protecting your online accounts from cyberattacks. Here are some of the benefits of using MFA:

• It reduces the risk of identity theft, fraud, and data breaches. MFA makes it harder for hackers to access your accounts and steal your personal and financial information.
• It saves you time and money. MFA can prevent you from losing access to your accounts, having to reset your passwords, or dealing with the consequences of a hacked account. According to a report by McAfee, cybercrime costs the global economy more than $600 billion per year. MFA can help you avoid being part of that statistic.
• It gives you peace of mind. MFA lets you enjoy the convenience and benefits of online services without worrying about your security. You can trust that your accounts are safe and that you are the only one who can access them.

How to Set Up Multifactor Authentication

Most online services now offer MFA as an option or a requirement for their users. You can check which services support MFA and how to enable it on them by visiting https://2fa.directory a website that provides instructions for most services that you would use.

The most important account to set up with MFA is your email account as that is the account that is used to reset passwords on all your other accounts.

Here are some general steps to set up MFA on your accounts (but check the link above for more detailed instructions):

• Log in to your account and go to the security settings.
• Look for an option to enable or manage MFA, such as “two-step verification”, “two-factor authentication”, or “login verification”.
• Choose the method of MFA that you prefer, such as receiving a code via SMS, email, or app, or using a device or a biometric feature.
• Follow the instructions to set up and test your MFA method.
• Repeat these steps for all your online accounts.

Now that you know how MFA can protect your online accounts, don’t wait any longer. Set it up today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with enhanced security.