One and One is More Than Two.
So what is all the fuss about? My bank wants me to do this. So does my financial app. Payroll, time reporting, and the list goes on.
The advent of confirmation emails, special codes sent to your phone, and even touch ID are all examples of this technology. The goal of requiring an independent confirmation for access to important and private information is for the purpose of protecting you and your digital data. Since most of us access critical information on our mobile devices, in shared public kiosk machines, and even machines we may not have anti virus software installed, it is very possible for passwords to be compromised. In addition, with the increased amount of phishing emails looking to steal personal information it has become even harder to protect yourselves.
The goal of two factor authentication is to require a second confirmation prior to allowing access to your important information. This way, even if your password has been compromised it is much less likely to end in unauthorized access. Obviously if your cellphone is lost this method may not ensure your safety but for the most part, having to provide secondary approval before allowing access to a website reduces the risk significantly.
One area MCG, Inc. is exploring further for this is for access to email. You may not think this requires such a measure but email is the most likely application to be hacked, and can then allow someone to obtain much more information about you professionally and personally.
If you would like more information on this emerging technology option please reach out to the office.
