Is two-factor authentication a must for business emails and websites?

Passwords have always been the main line of defense for protecting our information on the Internet. However, these are no longer as secure as they used to be and it is because hacking has changed and improved its ways of getting around them easily.

In fact, cyber attacks are designed to easily get past passwords. There are malware created specifically for this and a single key is no longer enough to protect us.

We need to protect our data and even more so if we own a business. Our company's information is one of its most valuable assets, which is why companies need to jealously protect it.

If we lose confidential customer information or the design of our products, we can almost completely lose business. That's why below we'll explain why businesses should use two-factor authentication to protect their information, and we'll also tell you about other ways to protect your information.

Why use two-step authentication?

• More than 80% of passwords can be cracked in less than 6 hours.
• Hackers have sophisticated programs that they use to test billions of passwords every second.
• 65% of people use the same password for all logins.

What is two-factor authentication?

Also known as two-step verification or multi-factor authentication, it's a level of security that goes beyond simply entering your password and username. Here another layer is added to be able to access a platform or the web in a company.

The first step is to get user authentication. A name and password are provided. In the second step, the user is required to provide additional information to complete the login.

For example, verification codes are used that are sent to the mobile phone so that it can be added when the decision is started. They can also be security questions such as your birthplace or the name of your first school.

In more sophisticated equipment, it is possible to add facial or fingerprint recognition or biometrics.

There are many two-factor authentication methods, but the essence of them is the same: verify that the login is legitimate in addition to the password provided.

Adding this second layer of security makes it difficult for attackers to access your data. This reduces the chances of identity theft, as well as losing vital business information.

How to use two-factor authentication to protect your business?

Companies that use cloud-based software or have their employees log in from a virtual desktop must use two-factor authentication. 

There are many programs that allow two-step authentication, most of which require signing in via a passcode sent to users' mobile phones. This means that employees need their phones and have them handy while they log in.

They will need to train their employees so that they understand how to do it and also know the risk of data theft and why cybersecurity is important. 

Of course, keep in mind that two-factor authentication, while an important level of security, doesn't guarantee that your information is safe from a cyber attack. Risks of data theft arise from human error and social engineering behind cyber attacks.

To completely avoid an attack you have to train your staff, teach them to identify suspicious activities so as not to fall into the traps. Likewise, an adequate and up-to-date infrastructure with good equipment further strengthens cybersecurity.

How else can I protect my business data?

The use of technology is essential today for all areas of our life and especially for business. This allows us to communicate, promote ourselves and make the work process easier.

But with all its advantages, there are also failures. And it is that cyber attacks have increased in recent years towards the business, precisely because of the nature of technology in the business world where data becomes a precious resource.

That's why not only two-factor authentication is a must for commercial websites, but also the use of programs that ensure data protection while browsing the Internet.

A virtual private network or VPN allows for anonymous browsing and encrypts the information sent and received so that it cannot be traced or stolen. We recommend that you use a VPN that comes with a free trial option, so you get to know the program well before you buy it.   

But in general, these programs provide secure connections, as when you connect to one of their remote servers, your information is masked or hidden, making it safer to share confidential company data over the Internet.

Among other advantages, it also facilitates connecting with people who are far from you, is very easy to use and is a security lock because it uses strong encryption protocols. It also allows for high-speed connections and unlimited bandwidth.

You can also link multiple devices into one account and thus protect your confidential information on all fronts.