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While multi-factor authentication (MFA) can greatly enhance online security, regrettably, it is often neglected. This might be because some users are unfamiliar with its functionality or significance. So, to clear up any uncertainties, let's take a closer look at MFA and discuss what it is, why it is important, and how it can be enabled in NordPass.
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What is multi-factor authentication?
Technically speaking, multi-factor authentication, or simply MFA, is an access management component that requires users to provide two or more authentication factors to access an account.
Simply put, this means that MFA requires users to provide extra proof of identity — besides their username and password — to gain account access. This may involve confirmation codes sent via SMS texts, email messages, or phone calls. Consequently, MFA significantly boosts security by adding an additional layer of defense against unauthorized access to online accounts.
Why you should enable MFA
The user perspective
Some users see MFA as inconvenient due to the extended login process. However, with cyber threats on the rise, prioritizing digital security is crucial. In general, MFA acts like an extra lock on your door. Users with MFA enjoy increased online protection and feel more engaged in each login, which enhances their sense of control.
Moreover, MFA users face a lower risk of falling prey to cybercrimes such as phishing. This is because even if hackers manage to acquire passwords and usernames, they would still need an additional factor for access.
The business perspective
When it comes to incorporating MFA in a business environment, some organizations still find the process daunting, though, in reality, it's a walk in the park. That’s right! — Thanks to today's advanced security technologies, implementing MFA company-wide is quite effortless. And once implemented, the benefits of MFA far outweigh any initial inconveniences. These benefits include:
Enhanced cybersecurity
MFA adds an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data and accounts.
Compliance adherence
Implementing MFA can help businesses meet regulatory requirements and industry standards related to data security.
Reduced risk of data breaches
Even if passwords are compromised, attackers still need an extra factor for access, lowering the risk of data breaches.
Improved user trust
MFA reassures customers and stakeholders that their information is in safe hands, enhancing trust in the organization.
Types of MFA in NordPass
NordPass is a secure and intuitive password manager developed specifically to facilitate smooth and secure password management for personal and business use. We'll now discuss in detail the two types of MFA you can use to log in to NordPass.
Using third-party authenticators to log in to NordPass
NordPass supports popular authenticator apps like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, and Authy, providing gateways for logging in. This means you can secure your NordPass access with a third-party authenticator. As a result, your NordPass Account gains extra protection against unauthorized access, enhancing your online security and providing peace of mind.
Security keys
This method of multi-factor authentication involves using a physical security key to log into your NordPass.
Security keys utilize asymmetric cryptography to verify your login details. Here's how it works: servers encrypt an authentication request with your public key, and then the platform you're logging into can decrypt it with your physical key. If the results match, you're signed into the desired website. With this security method, the only way hackers could access your account is by physically obtaining your key.
A security key is not linked to the user's identity, so it leaves no digital trace. It solely verifies user authenticity without storing any personal information or data. Nord Account supports U2F security keys certified by FIDO. These include the Security Key series, Yubikey 5 series, iePass FIDO K44, MultiPass FIDO K25, ePass FIDO NFC K9 and K35, BioPass FIDO K26 and K27, as well as others.
Backup codes
In unfortunate situations when you're unable to access the authenticator application or security key — such as losing or damaging your mobile phone — backup codes come to the rescue. These access codes are specially generated for you, providing a lifeline to restore account access during emergencies. You can safeguard these codes by saving them as a PDF or printing them out, ensuring they're securely stored and inaccessible to others.
Backup codes can be accessed in your Nord Account under Account Settings, but only when MFA is enabled.
How to enable MFA in NordPass?
The process for enabling MFA varies depending on whether you use NordPass for personal or business purposes. Below, you will find a description of both options.
How to enable MFA for personal use
Log in to Nord Account and go to your Account settings.
Open the Multi-factor authentication (MFA) tab and select Manage MFA.
Enter the verification code to verify your email.
Click Setup on the Authenticator app or Security key.
Follow the setup wizard to complete the MFA setup.
Once at least one of the MFA methods is enabled, the backup codes section becomes available. You can find a more detailed guide on setting up MFA in our help center article.
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How to implement MFA in your company
Open the Admin Panel.
Click on Settings.
Click on the toggle next to Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and confirm changes.
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After completing the process, NordPass will prompt all members of your organization to set up MFA as soon as they access their NordPass accounts. Only those with access to the Admin Panel will have the authority to disable mandatory MFA.
Of course, even if the company doesn't make MFA a requirement, end users still have the option to enable and use it themselves to boost their online security.
You can find a more detailed guide on setting up MFA in our help center article.
Visit our Help Center for MFA login instructions
The article you’ve just read offers an introduction to multi-factor authentication and how to enable it in NordPass. If you need detailed instructions on how to log in to NordPass using MFA, visit our Help Center. There, you will also find troubleshooting tips and answers to common questions to enhance your MFA experience with NordPass.
Stay safe!