Stephanie Udejiofor’s Post

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Cybersecurity Consultant || Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) Professional || ISO 27001 Lead Implementer

On the second day of Cyber, let's double the security   Relying on passwords alone is no longer enough to keep our accounts safe. Depending on the strength of your password, attackers can use software to try millions of combinations to crack it. This is where the concept of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) becomes essential.   What is MFA? Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security method that requires a combination of two or more verification factors before access is granted to a system or application. This means that even if your password is compromised, an additional layer of security still protects your account. Three common types of verification factors are: - Something you know : a Password, PIN, or secret question - Something you have : a token, smartphone, or secure USB Key - Something you are : personality traits like fingerprint, signature, or facial recognition   An example: imagine you've ordered a package and have been issued a tracking number ( something you know), at delivery, you are then asked for an ID (something you have) and to sign (something you are) for the delivery. This process uses a combination of all three factors.   What about 2FA? 2FA functions similarly as an MFA but is a subset of MFA that specifically uses just two factors. Either way, both MFA and 2FA are considered much better than password-only protection. Depending on the software application or system, setting up additional verification can be done through: - Authenticator apps: Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator - Text message: Codes sent to your phone   Why enable MFA/2FA? The benefits are clear, an attacker would need to overcome multiple security hurdles to access your account, significantly improving protection. I remember some time ago, some friends fell victim to Whatsapp scams and despite the platform's implementation of the two-pin verification, some were tricked into sharing one-time codes allowing scammers gain control of the whatsapp account. This is a prime example of why it's crucial not just to be aware of MFA, but also to never share one-time codes or PINs with anyone.   With that said 😊, take time out to review the security settings of your accounts to see where you can enable 2FA, especially for your email, financial, and social media accounts. For guidance on setting this up, check out this helpful tip from National Cyber Security Centre: Turn on 2SV (https://lnkd.in/eZRHiRkd) #cybersecurity #cyberawareness

Turn on 2-step verification (2SV)

Turn on 2-step verification (2SV)

ncsc.gov.uk

John Amowe

Control and Automation specialist. PLC and process control.

2mo

Nice one Stephanie. What of the guys that call your line and ask you to dictate a set of numbers that popped up on your phone? Someone almost fell victim to them today.

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Hey Stephanie Udejiofor this is fun and clever: well done!

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