Tag Archive for: 2fa

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Fortifying your business with two-factor authentication and two-step verification

The digital realm is teeming with risks that can compromise business data. Thankfully, a variety of tools and technologies are available for your company to fortify its cybersecurity. Two-factor authentication (2FA) and two-step verification (2SV) are among the most effective methods for bolstering your defenses against attackers.

2FA and 2SV are often used interchangeably, but they are, in fact, two distinct approaches to security. Let’s take a look at the differences between them and explore how they can benefit your business.

Two-factor authentication

2FA is a security measure that requires users to provide two different types of credentials in order to log into their accounts. Typically, the first factor consists of something that the user knows, such as a password. The second factor could be something like a one-time passcode sent via text message or email or a biometric identifier, such as a fingerprint.

With 2FA enabled on your business accounts, cybercriminals will have a harder time gaining access to these. Even if they somehow manage to obtain the first factor (e.g., by guessing your password), they still won’t be able to log in without the second piece of information, which only you can have.

Two-step verification

2SV is similar to 2FA in that it requires two pieces of information to gain access to an account. However, the difference between the two lies in the number of authentication steps involved. As the name suggests, 2SV requires two authentication steps: one where the user provides their first factor (e.g., a password) and another where they provide additional information that proves they are who they say they are.

For example, with 2SV enabled on your business accounts, users may be asked to provide a second form of authentication when they attempt to log in from an unfamiliar device or IP address. This could be in the form of another password, a one-time passcode generated by an authentication app on their phone, or some other type of verification.

Benefits of 2FA and 2SV for businesses

Enabling 2FA and/or 2SV on your business accounts can provide a variety of benefits, including:

  • Improved security – By adding an extra layer of authentication, you can reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts.
  • Enhanced compliance – By using advanced authentication, such as 2FA and 2SV, you can ensure that your business is meeting industry and government standards for data security.
  • Reduced costs – Fewer unauthorized access attempts means fewer chances of fraud and data theft, which can lead to significant cost savings over time.

Which is best for your business?

The decision of whether to use 2FA or 2SV depends on a number of factors, such as the size and complexity of your business, the type of data you are storing, and the level of security you require.

For example, if your business is storing sensitive data, such as customer credit card information, then a multifactor authentication system that includes both 2FA and 2SV may be the most appropriate choice. On the other hand, if you are simply looking to add an extra layer of protection to your email accounts, then a 2FA system may be all that is needed.

Ultimately, the best authentication solution for your business will depend on its individual needs and requirements. It is always a good idea to consult with an experienced security professional to ensure that you are making the right decision.

Our team of experts is here to help you make the best choice for your business. Get in touch with us today to learn more about 2FA and 2SV and how they can improve your security.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechAdvisory.org SOURCE

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The differences and benefits of two-factor and two-step authentication protocols

Both two-factor authentication and two-step authentication are processes that can help keep your business safe from data breaches. But while they serve the same purpose, these two methods are vastly different. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between two-factor authentication and two-step authentication, as well as the benefits of each process.

According to the Allianz Risk Barometer, businesses are more worried about cybersecurity threats compared to other business disruptions like supply chain issues, natural disasters, or even the COVID-19 pandemic. This is why business owners are ramping up data security measures. One way they do this is by implementing two-factor and two-step authentication. Many businesses use the two terms interchangeably, but these processes are quite different.

Two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security measure used to ensure that people trying to access a system are who they say they are. 2FA requires users to provide two pieces of information before being granted access.

When you try to log in to a system that uses 2FA, you’ll be asked to provide not only your password but also another piece of information or form of identification. This second factor can be something you know, like a PIN or a security question, or something you have, like a physical token or key fob. If you have the correct password and the second piece of information, then you’ll be granted access to the system. Because of the additional authentication information required, hackers would have great difficulty breaking into a network using a 2FA system.

Two-step authentication

Two-step authentication (2SA) is an extra layer of security that can be added to your online accounts. 2SA requires you to enter both your password and a code that is sent to your phone or email before you can log in.

Adding 2SA to your online accounts can help protect your information from being hacked. Even if a hacker knows your username and password, they will still need the code that is sent to your phone or email before they can log in to your account.

There are a few different ways to set up 2SA. Some websites, like Google and Facebook, offer 2SA as an additional security measure that is especially useful when you or someone else is trying to log in using a new or different device. Others, like Dropbox and Twitter, require you to set up your authentication profile in the settings page before you can use their app. A 2SA setup is typically quick and easy, and only requires you to have your phone or email immediately accessible when you log in.

Which one is better?

Relying on a single-factor authentication process is no longer sufficient in ensuring the safety of your network. Securing the authentication process and making it difficult for cybercriminals to access your network should be on top of your priorities. Deciding whether to use two-step or two-factor authentication largely depends on your business’s specific security requirements. To take the stress out of choosing which between the two methods better suits your needs, call us today for expert cybersecurity advice.

Are you interested in learning more about cybersecurity? Call us today and discover how our wide array of tech services can safeguard your business.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechAdvisory.org SOURCE

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7 Easy ways to prevent data loss in Microsoft 365

Microsoft understands the value of business data and the costly repercussions of losing it. That’s why they’ve released a slew of security and compliance tools for Microsoft 365 subscribers. But given the increasing sophistication and frequency of data breaches, these cloud security solutions aren’t enough to protect your files. You’ll need to follow these seven security tips to prevent data loss in Microsoft 365.

Take advantage of policy alerts

Establishing policy notifications in Microsoft 365’s Compliance Center can help you meet your company’s data security obligations. For instance, policy tips can pop up to warn employees about sending confidential information anytime they’re about to send messages to contacts who aren’t listed in the company network. These preemptive warnings can prevent data leaks and also educate users on safer data sharing practices.

Secure mobile devices

Since personal smartphones and tablets are often used to access work email, calendar, contacts, and documents, securing them should be a critical part of protecting your organization’s data. Installing mobile device management features for Microsoft 365 enables you to manage security policies and access permissions/restrictions, and remotely wipe sensitive data from mobile devices if they’re lost or stolen.

Use multifactor authentication

Don’t rely on a single password to safeguard your Microsoft 365 accounts. To reduce the risk of account hijacking, you must enable multifactor authentication. This feature makes it difficult for hackers to access your account since they not only have to guess user passwords, but also provide a second authentication factor like a temporary SMS code.

Apply session timeouts

Many employees usually forget to log out of their Microsoft 365 accounts and keep their computers or mobile devices unlocked. This could give unauthorized users unfettered access to company accounts, allowing them to steal sensitive data. By applying session timeouts to Microsoft 365, email accounts, and internal networks, the system will automatically log users out after 10 minutes, preventing hackers from opening company workstations and accessing private information.

Avoid public calendar sharing

Microsoft 365’s calendar sharing features allow employees to share and sync their schedules with their colleagues’. However, publicly sharing this information is a bad idea because it helps attackers understand how your company works, determine who’s away, and identify vulnerable users. For instance, if security administrators are publicly listed as “Away on vacation,” an attacker may see this as an opportunity to unleash malware on unattended computers.

Employ role-based access controls

Another Microsoft 365 feature that will limit the flow of sensitive data across your company is access management. This lets you determine which user (or users) have access to specific files in your company. For example, front-of-house staff won’t be able to read or edit executive-level documents, minimizing data leaks.

Encrypt emails

Encrypting classified information is your last line of defense against data breaches. If hackers intercept your emails, encryption tools will make files unreadable to unauthorized recipients. This is a must-have for Microsoft 365, where files and emails are shared on a regular basis.

While Microsoft 365 offers users the ability to share data and collaborate, you must be aware of potential data security risks at all times. When you partner with us, we will make sure your Microsoft 365 is secure. If you need help keeping up with ever-changing data security and compliance obligations, we can assist you there, too!

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechAdvisory.org SOURCE

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