Cyber-attacks are more frequent, more advanced, and more automated than ever. At the same time, attackers are using AI to speed up phishing scams, hack passwords faster, and craft messages that are harder to detect as spam. Weak, generic, or reused passwords are often all it takes for someone to gain access to your email, bank account, cloud storage and other pieces of your personally identifiable information. Setting up multi-factor authentication is one of the most common practices for protecting your online accounts.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security method that requires users to provide two or more forms of verification to access an account or system. These factors typically fall into three categories:
By requiring multiple types of credentials, MFA provides a multi-layered line of defense. This makes it much more difficult for someone to access your online accounts. The importance of security is no longer limited to government, banking, or other business environments. With the rise in online presence, the need for stricter security practices for all individuals has become critical as well.
Two-factor authentication (TFA) is a type of MFA that requires two different forms of verification before granting access to an account. It usually combines something you know, like a password, with something you have, like a code from an authenticator app or a text message. This extra step makes it harder for attackers to access your account, even if they have your password. TFA is widely supported and is one of the easiest ways to add meaningful protection to personal and work accounts.
A strong password is long, unique, and difficult to guess. It should include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid using common words, personal details, or predictable patterns. Aim for at least 12 characters and never reuse the same password across multiple accounts. Using a passphrase, a string of random words, or a sentence with substitutions, can also improve security while keeping it memorable. For the best results, use a password manager to generate and store strong passwords automatically.
A password manager is a tool that helps you create, store, and autofill strong, unique passwords for every account you use. Instead of remembering dozens of logins, you only need to remember one master password. Most password managers can also generate secure passwords, store two-factor codes, and alert you if your credentials have been part of a data breach. Popular options include:
Authentication apps generate time-based codes that help verify your identity when you log in to an account. These codes refresh regularly and are tied to your device, making them more secure than text messages, which can be intercepted or stolen through SIM swap attacks.
To use an authentication app, you scan a QR code during the account setup process. Once linked, the app will show a unique six-digit code each time you log in. Entering this code is your second layer of protection.
Authentication apps work offline and are safer than relying on codes sent by text.
The passkey is quickly becoming a popular option for logging into an account. This method uses cryptographic keys stored on your device to securely authenticate you. The benefit of a passkey is that it is much more difficult to hack since it requires something more unique to the individual, like a fingerprint, PIN, or facial scan.
Your device stores a private key, while the service you are logging into holds a matching public key. The private key never leaves your device, making it far more secure than traditional passwords.
Passkeys cannot be reused, guessed, or stolen in a data breach, and they are resistant to phishing and other common attacks. You can manage your saved passkeys in your device’s account settings (Apple ID or Google Account). Some services also let you use passkeys stored in password managers like 1Password or Bitwarden.
Staying safe online is not just about choosing strong passwords anymore. As data breaches become more common and attackers adopt more advanced tools, adding a multi-layer security process is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Two-factor authentication is simple, free, and supported by almost every major platform. Whether you choose an authenticator app, a physical key, or another method, turning it on adds real protection that passwords alone cannot provide.
Now is the time to act. Review your accounts, enable multi-factor authentication where available on all online accounts, and consider using a password manager to help you stay organized and secure. A little bit of upfront effort can save a lot of headaches down the road.
Published on: June 27, 2025 by Ryan Brooks