Protecting valuable assets is an important part of a business’s infrastructure. Regardless of the type of business you own, having an effective security system ensures that your operations run smoothly. For instance, a jewelry store typically implements layers of security tools such as alarms and motion detectors to detect robberies. 

In your company, data is equally as valuable as jewelry so it’s crucial to have a system that works, especially with the evolution of how hackers perform their cyberattacks. According to techbeacon, 95 percent of all cyberattacks are caused by weak or stolen usernames and passwords. Of course, it’s a great idea to have an antivirus and antimalware software installed on your devices. We have an entire blog post dedicated to the wonders of antivirus and antimalware software on your devices. However, the truth is, it may not be enough to fully safeguard your data. 

In the same way your average jewelry stores have alarms, motion detectors and biometric scanners, your business needs several layers of security tools to protect your confidential data. The best solution we recommend is 2-factor authentication (2FA). On this blog, we’ll explore 2-factor authentication and why it’s the best security measure for your business.

 

What is 2-factor authentication?

Despite its complex name, 2-factor authentication (2FA), also called multi-factor authentication, has a simple process. In order for a user to gain access to a private account or business operating system, a user would need to provide their login information as well as two types of authentication, usually an ID or a number code sent to an email. The two types of authentication act as digital “keys” that reduce the likelihood of a security breach. 

 

2FA gives your business extra security. 

Whether you use Dropbox or social media sites like Facebook, there’s a chance you’ve encountered 2-factor authentication at some point. 2FA is an effective security method because it needs the user to verify their identity before they access an account. Generally, the first step to 2FA requires you to provide your login ID like your username and password. You need to know this information before going to the next step. 

Now, unlike asking a generic security question like your father’s high school or the name of your first pet, the second step to 2FA is tricky for cybercriminals to hack. It asks the user to provide a second piece of information, Sometimes, it’ll send a number code via SMS message to your cell phone. Other times, it may ask you to authenticate through other security apps like Duo Mobile. Once you provide the information, you will be able to access the account or any other system you wish. The extra layer of security allows you and your employees to safely navigate through your business operating system and devices without worries. 

 

2FA increases productivity in the workplace.

Many life factors occurring today have pushed the workplace towards a more digital landscape. For instance, as reported by Oberlo, as many 73% of the global population uses smartphones. This likely means that your employees are using mobile devices to work in and outside of the office, which helps boost productivity. Of course, like all devices, smartphones are vulnerable to cyber attacks. 2FA is the best security method since it provides security and protection as employees access and use business data like confidential documents and applications. Even if a device is breached, 2FA offers strong security measures that prevent hackers from obtaining access. 

 

2FA offers employees with a variety of options.

2FA also has the added benefit of providing different options for your employees when they need to provide their second ID. For example, the system may ask employees to provide a one-time password or check their email inbox for a link. Other options may include:

• Text messages. Text messages are the most common method of 2FA. Usually, the user will receive a number code through text, which they can enter into their login account. 
• Voice call. Some operating systems provide voice call options, in which users will receive a phone call that requires them to authenticate their identity before accessing their account.

• Push notification. Some apps like Duo Mobile or Auth0 Guardian send push notifications to a user’s cell phone. It’s similar to receiving alerts from news apps. This option typically requests that a user respond through the “Yes” or “No” option.

Each of these 2FA options have their pros and cons. Based on your employees’ preferences, they can choose the type of second factor that they like the best. 

 

Although we may not realize it, we use different forms of security in our daily lives. We use keys to lock our doors before we leave our home. We install strong windows to prevent break-ins. We use safes to protect important documents. In the same way we use security in our lives, make sure to use effective security methods that can help you. 2FA augments your security so that it goes beyond relying on usernames and passwords, while also enhancing employee productivity. 

You can learn more about improving your cybersecurity by reading our blog, 10 Network Security Tips for 2021.