Stay Safer with Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to boost your online security. One of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your online accounts is by using Multifactor Authentication (MFA). Here’s a quick guide to MFA and how it can keep you safer from cyber threats.

What is MFA?

Multifactor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. It requires not only your password but also a second form of verification, like:

• A code sent via text or email.
• An authenticator app that generates a code.
• Biometrics like fingerprints or facial recognition.

MFA helps confirm your identity when logging into your accounts, making it much harder for hackers to gain access, even if they have your password.

Enabling Multifactor Authentication (MFA)—it’s simple AND highly effective. As we highlighted in our recent blog post on cybersecurity tips, MFA is one of four key methods to protect your accounts. By requiring an extra step to verify your identity, MFA adds a critical layer of security that helps keep hackers out, even if they get your password. 

How to Turn on MFA

Turning on MFA is easy and can be done for most online accounts. Here’s how:

• Open Your App or Account
  Go to Settings
  Depending on the app or website, look for “Account Settings,” “Settings & Privacy,” or a similar option.
• Find and Enable MFA
  You might see this option labeled as “Two-Factor Authentication” or “Two-Step Verification.”
• Choose Your Method of Verification
  You can select how you’d like to confirm your identity—whether by a text message, email, app-generated code, or biometric login.

After setting up MFA, you’ll need to complete an extra step each time you log in, but this small action can significantly increase your account’s security.

Protect Your Most Important Accounts

It’s a good idea to enable MFA on all accounts that offer it, especially those that handle sensitive information like:

• Email accounts
• Banking and financial accounts
• Social media
• Online shopping accounts

Using MFA provides additional protection for your online identity, purchases, and personal data.

Why MFA is So Effective

MFA makes it much harder for cybercriminals to access your accounts, even if they manage to steal your password. It’s a simple way to safeguard your information, and most platforms offer MFA as a free security feature.

Spread the Word

Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. By turning on MFA and encouraging others to do the same, you can help create a safer online community. Share these tips with family and friends to help them stay secure, too!

For more information on cybersecurity tips, visit CISA’s "Secure Our World" page at CISA.gov.

Take action today—turn on MFA and take one step closer to securing your digital life!

Teknologize is a SOC 2 certified, Professional Technology Services company with clients throughout the Pacific Northwest. We have offices located in:

• Tri-Cities, Washington 509.396.6640
• Yakima, Washington 509.396.6640
• Bend, Oregon 541.848.6072
• Seattle, Washington 206.743.0981

Questions about your IT or Cybersecurity? Give us a call today!