Passwords remain a basic element in protecting online accounts, but they are no longer sufficient against current attack techniques. Companies must increase their level of security to limit the risk of intrusion, information theft or financial loss. Multi Factor Authentication MFA adds an essential layer of security by combining several identification elements. This article explains why it has become indispensable and how to deploy it effectively.
Access and password weaknesses What you need to know
Access to professional systems or many personal sites still often relies on a simple password. Yet this approach no longer meets the modern need for protection. Attackers use brute force attacks, phishing campaigns or retrieve passwords published online after massive leaks. On a desktop computer, a smartphone or a tablet, the risks remain identical a compromised password is enough to take control of an account.
Traditional security questions do not solve the issue. They are easy to guess, often public and rarely changed. They add additional burden without providing real protection. The theft of a phone number or the compromise of an email address is sometimes enough to bypass overly simple protections.
Need for more robust methods than passwords
The need to strengthen authentication has become obvious. Even with advanced protection software, human weakness remains. Too many people use the same password for several online accounts, which amplifies the impact of a breach. Two step verification by SMS has long been a widespread solution, but it relies on a phone number that can be hijacked. This method also depends on the mobile network and can be vulnerable to SIM based attacks.
Organisations must consider the second authentication step more seriously. A second factor based on possession or inherence significantly increases security. For example, a fingerprint, a hardware key or a dedicated application makes compromise much more difficult.
Important thing Understanding the limits of SMS based 2FA
Many employees think that receiving a code by SMS on their phone provides sufficient security. The reality is different.
Main limitations:
- Redirection or hijacking of the number
- Risks related to mobile networks
- Dependence on the physical phone
- Possible interceptions on certain android devices
- Same issue for codes transmitted by automated calls
For these reasons, experts now recommend more advanced methods. A solution such as microsoft authenticator or a hardware security key adds a truly effective protection layer, even when a password has been compromised.
Expert or not here are the best practices for choosing MFA
An MFA is a multi factor authentication method. It is a security approach that requires several identity proofs to access an account.
It combines for example:
- something you know such as a password
- something you have such as a code sent to your phone
- something you are such as a fingerprint
To strengthen security, companies must integrate an MFA adapted to their organisation. Some approaches stand out due to their effectiveness and ease of adoption.
Security based on a possession factor
The user must have an external element such as
- A smartphone configured with an authentication application
- A physical key compatible with major sites
- Another personal device validated during the first connection
This approach drastically reduces the risk of compromise even if an attacker knows the password or the phone number of the victim.
Security based on a biometric factor
Inherence factors reinforce protection even further. A fingerprint or biometric scan grants access only to the legitimate person. Combined with a second factor, this system becomes highly resistant to attacks.
Security based on a dedicated application
Using applications such as microsoft authenticator or similar tools provides more reliable authentication than SMS. They generate a temporary code or send a push validation to the phone. Many sites now recommend or even enforce them.
Number and phone Why they are no longer sufficient
In a professional environment, a phone number should no longer be the only validation method. Attackers can hijack a SIM card or intercept codes. In addition, call issues, network failures or a lost phone complicate access and increase risks. Authentication through an application or physical key is a far more coherent choice.
This evolution concerns large companies, schools, public offices and remote working organisations alike. MFA protects digital identity regardless of location.
How to deploy MFA quickly in your organisation
MFA can be deployed in a short time if a structured approach is followed.
Expert or not start with an access mapping
You must first identify critical applications, sensitive pages and resources exposed online. Accounts of executives, finance teams, internal support and administrators must be secured as a priority. This initial work ensures that each site or service receiving too many risky connections is protected by a reliable second factor.
Need for an internal support centre
Having a team or expert responsible for the deployment reduces errors. This support accompanies the migration, manages lost phone issues, assists users and adjusts access according to needs.
Implementation of a strong second factor
The company should prioritise:
- An application such as microsoft authenticator
- A resistant hardware key
- Biometric validation on smartphone or another device
This creates stronger authentication and a secure access link between the user and the resources.
Communication and privacy notice
Good internal communication must remind
- The purpose of MFA
- The protection of money and sensitive data
- New security rules
- Impact on workload
- Adjustments in the privacy notice
The goal is to ensure smooth and coherent adoption.
Conclusion
Multi Factor Authentication now represents an essential pillar of security in Swiss organisations. By combining a password with a second factor of possession or inherence and a reliable application, the company reduces its risks and protects its online accounts. MFA limits brute force attacks, prevents compromise even if a phone or number is lost and provides stronger resistance to modern threats.