What I like best about 2FA (2 factor authentication) is that it’s a major security tool I myself can use to help protect my data. Yes, it’s one more step to get into your software and services, but every day brings a new story of a major security breach. We must keep fighting the good fight. If your business allows employee access to company data, you need to have this important preventive security in place.
Two-factor authentication, or 2FA, is like a deadbolt added to a door. It’s that extra turn to really secure your data. There are three generally recognized factors for authentication: something you know (your password), something you have (a hardware token or a cell phone), and something you enter that changes randomly. With 2FA, you put in your password, but before you are allowed access to your data, you must have second authentication. Usually this is just a numeric code sent to your cell phone, to be used only once. Now there are specialized apps, and they have a set of rotating codes to be used as the second authentication.
Aptica Can Demonstrate How 2FA Security Works For You
A leader in 2FA is Google Authenticator (free on Android, iOS, BlackBerry). Two others who do the same thing are Twilio Authy (free on iOS, Android, BlackBerry, macOS, Windows and the Chrome browser), and Duo Mobile (on iOS, Android, BlackBerry, and Windows phone). The second two present with more interesting style and colors than the Google Authenticator. And, password manager LastPass has also launched a 2FA authenticator for iOS and Android. The codes generated in authenticator apps will sync across your accounts.
Staying secure isn’t easy these days. The bad actors out there are counting on you to be lax rather than working to protect yourself. Using 2FA and password manager apps will work to prevent outsiders from stealing and/or holding hostage your identity, data, or money. Take the time to learn about two-factor authentication. Aptica suggests a quick 3 minute read from Webroot, Inc about 2FA. See their recent blog at https://www.webroot.com/blog/2017/11/07/two-factor-authentication/.
Jason Newburg, 260.243.5100, ext 2101, is the founder and owner of Aptica LLC. This IT management and support company has been serving small to medium sized businesses for 16 years in the region that includes Angola, South Bend, and Fort Wayne, IN, Battle Creek, MI, and Toledo OH.