One of the simple ways to add a layer of security is by enabling Multi-factor Authentication (MFA). They serve as a useful measure to prevent password attacks since passwords play a critical role in identity-related breaches.

Why MFA is so effective?

Security experts recommend enabling MFA because it seeks multiple authorizations before granting user access. It is effective in preventing account compromise attempts. MFAs are part of cybersecurity hygiene practices today and have become a reliable means to reduce the possibility of unauthorized access to an account.

According to Microsoft, Multifactor Authentication can block over 99.99% of account compromise attacks. Since MFAs have become quite a popular security measure, attackers have found a way around it.

What is an MFA bypass?

In an MFA bypass the attacker attempts to avoid and circumvent MFA to gain access to the user’s account. MFA bypass attacks have become more frequent in modern-day attacks. But let us understand how MFA verifies identity.

How does MFA verify identity?

MFA uses any two of these aspects to verify an identity.

• A Knowledge factor – all MFAs need a PIN or an OTP or require answering a security question. It provides security since it requires something only you would know and no one else would.
• A Possession factor – The second aspect that it relies on is something that only you would have. It can be an endpoint, a phone to receive push notifications, or a security key.
• An inheritance factor – Lastly it requires a unique part of your identity such as biometrics that can include your fingerprints, your retina scans, or your voice.

An attacker exploits weaknesses in these aspects to carry out an MFA attack. Let us explore the different ways through which attackers carry out MFA attacks.

How to prevent MFA attacks?

Now you must be wondering how to be safe from MFA attacks. Here are some ways you can reduce the possibility of becoming a victim of MFA attacks:

Set limits on push notifications

Disable push notifications as an authentication method and enable locking of accounts on too many MFA attempts. It can reduce the possibility of MFA Fatigue attack significantly.

Enable number matching

By enabling number matching, every time a user tries to sign in, they will be prompted with a code on their browser that they must input on their mobile device. It will require third party trying to sign in to contact the user to input code in the authenticator application.

Raise awareness on MFA attacks:

Chances are, there are many people who aren’t aware of MFA attacks. Attackers leverage this lack of knowledge to find weaknesses in security. Therefore, awareness becomes a fundamental defense pillar against MFA attacks.
Discover how attacker use different techniques to hack passwords