The best practice for password security has always been to use complex passwords that have numbers and special characters, but the password/login defense is looking weaker these days as hackers become more sophisticated. Multi-factor authentication is a tool that enhances your password security; and today, major technology companies are making it even more accessible than ever before.
Multi-factor authentication works by employing multiple levels of identification to grant you access into your account. The password/login formula is an example of one-factor authentication, because you are asked for something you know. The two-factor authentication adds an additional personal factor about yourself, something you have, this typically makes use of your mobile phone.
The two-factor identification solution is a logical next step for password security, seeing that virtually everybody places their cell phone on their desk before logging on to their computer. The phone comes into play after you successfully enter your user ID and password into your account, your phone will then be texted a Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) that will grant you access into your account.
In the past, multi-factor identification seemed like something that was reserved for secret military operations, but we are now seeing two-factor identification being offered by major internet companies to everyday users. Google and Dropbox have two-factor identification available, and Facebook has had two-factor identification available for over a year now.
In October 2012, Microsoft took a big step in making two-factor identification available to an even wider audience by acquiring PhoneFactor. It is a good guess that Microsoft plans to incorporate PhoneFactor into many of their offerings. PhoneFactor has additional features that enhance security and convenience even more, making the two-factor identification solution that much more attractive.
PhoneFactor utilizes TOTP texts for smartphones, but if texting is not your thing, then PhoneFactor can call your phone after you enter your password, and ask you to press the pound key to access your account. This feature is compatible with all phones, which will appeal to businesses that would prefer to keep sensitive login information off an employee's personal device. PhoneFactor also monitors your account, and anytime a hacker attempts to break in by entering multiple passwords, PhoneFactor will make calls to alert you and your IT department.
Are you feeling vulnerable with only a password between a hacker and your identity? Then call Elite Integration today at (281) 313-1321, we can add to your accounts as many different factors of security it takes give you peace of mind.
