Let’s face it, the modern era of technology can be dangerous at times. With online predators seeking access to your information, being diligent in your online security is more important than ever. One of the best defenses against someone gaining access to your email account information is by setting a multi-factor authentication (MFA) for email.
MFA for email is a simple security measure that ensures it is you logging into your email accounts. Let’s dive into why adding multi-factor authentication is an important step in your online security and some simple steps to get started.
What is MFA for Email?
Multi-factor authentication is an additional step in the login process intended to confirm the identity of the would-be user. As its name suggests, MFA for email will add identification confirmation when attempting to access an email account.
The main idea is that even if an identity thief or a hacker has stolen your password, the extra layer of authentication will prevent them from getting further than the login screen.
Depending on your email service provider, you likely have a few different options for how you would like to set up an MFA for email. The exact method of additional identity confirmation could be any of the following ways:
- A text message to a phone number you have on file
- An email to a secondary email address
- A phone call with an access code
- Biometric identification (only on certain email providers)
Why is a Multi-Factor Authentication Important?
While we all think of protecting our loved ones and assets, protecting your information is equally essential. Quickly take a moment and inventory all the accounts linked to your email address. If you are like most people, you likely have nearly everything connected to an email address. If someone with mal-intent has access to your email address, they could have free reign over almost all of your online identity.
An MFA for email is like a deadbolt on the front door of your home. Though the door handle has a lock, it is not as secure as it could be. Intrusion attempts are on the rise (Norton reports 2,200 cyber attacks daily). We’ve seen several instances in local businesses where having the additional layer of protection of an MFA would have stopped a predator from accessing information.
How to Keep Your Email Account Secure
Setting up an MFA for email is a relatively simple task. In most email providers, you will need to go through the settings menu to turn on the option. Many email providers will prompt you to turn on this feature when you log in. However, you may also want to add a few other methods of keeping your email accounts secure.
Consider taking the following online security steps:
- Choose a strong password
- Do not use the same password for multiple accounts
- Change your password regularly
- Keep a record of your previous passwords
- Set up a security alert for new login attempts
- Let Tech Support Jacksonville help protect your online identity
Not sure where to begin in securing your IT systems? Keep your email and online accounts safe and secure with our tech support team in Jacksonville. Contact us to request a quote today.