What is multi-factor authentication?

Even if you are unaware of it, chances are you will have benefitted from multifactor authentication – a process of adding multiple layers of security to an online system or remotely stored data. In a bid to ensure their digital security is robust and reliable, many businesses and s have added multi-factor authentication to their online services in recent years.

Multifactor authentication essentially requires users to supply two or more independent credentials to prove their identity. Whilst traditional sign-in processes may simply require a password (this is just a single factor of authentication), services employing a more robust security system may require an additional process such as email verification, using a chipped card, scanning a fingerprint, asking a security question or almost anything unique to the user.

Whilst this additional process may seem like an inconvenience at the time, it could be the protective layer which stops unwanted eyes glancing upon sensitive and personal data. The more unique and robust the network of authentication processes which are implemented, the more securely the data is protected.

What is the benefit of multi-factor authentication?

Simply, security. With the large number of cyber-attacks and data breaches which have occurred over the past 18 months (including the attacks on T-Mobile, Ashley Madison and more which became global news), it is obvious that cyber criminals are more advanced and a bigger threat than ever before.

Staying one step ahead of the potential threat is of paramount importance, and every layer of security which can be added to your online date provides an extra protective blanket. Whilst hacking passwords has become child’s play for more advanced cyber criminals, it can be significantly more difficult to hack fingerprints and chipped cards.

If your business or online service stores sensitive data and information (whether this belongs to you, the owner, or customers), it is vital that all due considerations are paid to security. Failure to do so could compromise the entire security of the stored data – potentially leading to leaks and attacks similar to those listed above.

How do I implement multi-factor authentication?

If you are creating a website or portal using an off-the-shelf CMS, there may be options to implement a number of authentication processes to be used in tandem. However, these processes may be relatively crude and insecure – and hackers may be more prone to target the security of CMSs with a large number of users.

A bespoke package with a selection of authentication processes which are unique to your system may be less prone to hacks and attacks. Furthermore, it may be simpler to develop and collate the process which would be best suited to your core users. A bespoke package will be able to give you greater control over the user journey, and the security you provide to everybody who uses the system and stores their data.