Why MFA Still Matters More Than Ever in Managing Information Services

What if you could still use your old password? The one you used a long time ago that you no longer use and do not even recall. This was the same scenario behind a recent large-scale data theft campaign that targeted companies around the globe. In a recent cybersecurity investigation, it showed that data was being gathered and then sold on the dark web. This also has a wide range of size, sector, and geographical location. However, they all had one thing in common, and that is, they all used a simple username and password to gain access to their important systems. The access was made easier since there was no need for any additional authentication. In cases like this, professionals in managing information services encourage everyone, especially businesses, to have a multi-layered cybersecurity protocol in place. 

Why MFA Still Matters More Than Ever in Managing Information Services

How Attackers Got In 

According to reports, hackers stole credentials using info-stealing malware that operates in the background. This can happen on any devices such as laptops, home systems, and most especially, corporate networks. Experts in managing information services said that what makes this attack more dangerous is the timing. This is because compromised passwords are not necessarily used right away but rather, are passwords that have been stolen years ago and are still active. 

Experts in Managing Information Services Explains the Problem with Old Access 

This is referred to as latency. This means that the threat is not detected or used for a long time but is rather used at the right moment. In this case, providers managing information services identified two major issues. First, passwords were not changed frequently. And second, the previous login information was not deleted. So, old passwords stayed trusted past their due date of deletion. As a result, a computer infected years ago can be a risk today. In this case, past errors don’t stand the test of time and, instead, quietly wait to be exploited. 

How MFA Changes Everything 

Because of this, providers managing information services say that Multi-Factor Authentication is a necessity as it provides an extra layer of security. This is because it asks for more than a password in order to login to an account. A second piece of information such as a phone code, app notification, or fingerprint. This second factor makes a big difference because even if someone gets the password, they need the other factor to log in. In the reported cases, those with MFA were not affected as the hackers had the password, but not the second factor of authentication. 

Providers Managing Information Services Explains Why MFA is Worth the Effort 

Despite the protection that MFA provides, many find it annoying. This is because it takes a bit longer to log in. However, experts say that this is but a small price for a big payoff. Without MFA, a forgotten password can still unlock critical systems. Hence, confidential information can be viewed, copied, and sold without detection. Thus, the consequences are far more disruptive than the extra step during login. Security professionals also continue to emphasize the same point. Passwords are no longer sufficient to secure systems.  

A Simple but Essential Upgrade 

Despite all the new things we currently experience, it is important to remember that old passwords do not expire. Rather, access can just be left dormant for years which leaves potential backdoors for criminals to use. Having an MFA is like having a second lock that makes it difficult for attackers to use stolen passwords. Thus, MFA is now compulsory. It is a simple but effective way to safeguard your organization. 

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