An extra layer of protection that makes life harder for hackers. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is one of the most effective ways to prevent password-related breaches. And with passkeys, there is now an even simpler way to protect our digital accounts. Let’s take a closer look at how these technologies work and why they matter.
First Things First: What Is Two-Factor Authentication?
Multi-factor authentication, two-step verification, two-factor authentication, or simply 2FA. It goes by many names, but they all refer to a way of giving your online accounts an extra layer of security by adding one or more methods, known as authentication factors, to the login process.
The basic principle is to combine something you know, such as your password, with something you have, such as your phone. This makes two-factor authentication a powerful way to reduce the risk of unauthorised access. Even if an attacker gets hold of your password, they still need access to the second verification method to log in.
There are many different technical solutions for two-factor authentication. One common example is entering a one-time code from an authentication app, such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator, after you have entered your password.
And What Is a Passkey?
A passkey is a more modern way to log in that can replace your password altogether. Instead of entering a password, you can verify your identity using Face ID, Touch ID, Windows Hello, a PIN on your device, or a physical security key.
Behind the scenes, encryption is used to confirm that it really is you trying to log in. The private key remains on your device and never needs to be entered on a website.
This brings two clear benefits: logging in becomes easier, while protection against phishing becomes stronger. A passkey only works with the service it was created for. If you end up on a fake login page, you cannot accidentally hand over your passkey in the same way you might reveal a password.
Why Is Stronger Authentication So Important?
Why do we, along with many others, consider stronger authentication so important? The short answer is that even the strongest password is not enough.
Hackers’ methods are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Every year, numerous incidents occur in which people have their login details stolen through phishing, malware, or other attacks. AI can also be used to create increasingly convincing and highly personalised scams on a large scale.
Another problem is that many of us use the same or similar passwords for several different services. In other words, an attacker may only need to obtain one password to gain access to multiple accounts.
Statistics also show just how important an additional layer of protection can be. According to security data from Microsoft, more than 99.9% of compromised accounts do not use multi-factor authentication. This highlights an important point: a password alone provides weak protection if it falls into the wrong hands. By using two-factor authentication or passkeys, you create another barrier for anyone trying to access your account.
More than 99.9% of compromised accounts do not use multi-factor authentication.
Source: Microsoft
Four Good Reasons to Use Stronger Authentication
- To prevent data breaches. Without an additional layer of protection, your organisation is more vulnerable to attacks in which unauthorised individuals may gain access to sensitive information and data.
- To comply with laws and regulations. Many organisations are subject to strict requirements governing how sensitive information must be protected. Strong authentication methods are an important part of a well-planned approach to security.
- To avoid financial losses. Responding to a security breach, restoring data, and managing the consequences can be costly. The organisation may also suffer direct financial losses.
- To maintain customer trust. Customers and business partners expect their data to be handled securely. A security breach can damage trust in your organisation for a long time.
Passkeys or 2FA: What Is the Difference?
Both 2FA and passkeys provide stronger protection than a username and password alone, but they work in slightly different ways.
With 2FA, you use your usual password and add another form of verification, such as a one-time code from an authentication app.
A passkey, on the other hand, can replace the password entirely. For example, you can verify your identity using Face ID, Touch ID, or Windows Hello. This makes the login process both easier and more resistant to phishing.
The options available will depend on the service you use. However, the basic principle remains the same: a password should never be the only thing standing between an attacker and your account.
Three Tips for Making Secure Login Part of Your Security Culture
Two-factor authentication and passkeys are effective ways to reduce the risk of IT incidents with serious consequences. With today’s technology, making the switch does not need to be particularly complicated either.
To make the transition as smooth as possible, there are a few things you and your colleagues should consider:
- Explain to all employees why stronger authentication is needed.
Describe what 2FA and passkeys are, and how they help improve security for both individual employees and the organisation as a whole. A new login method may feel unfamiliar at first, but understanding why it is needed usually makes it easier to adopt. - Provide clear instructions.
Make sure everyone can easily find information about how the login process works and who to contact if they have questions or encounter problems. - Make secure login a natural part of your procedures.
Include clear guidelines on passwords, 2FA, and passkeys in your organisation’s IT security policy.
How We Approach Secure Login in Flex HRM
At Flex Applications, we believe that security and ease of use should go hand in hand. Logging in should provide strong protection without making the working day more complicated than necessary.
Users log in to Flex HRM via Visma Connect, where they can use a passkey or two-factor authentication to strengthen the security of their account.
We primarily recommend using a passkey, as it combines a high level of security with a smooth login experience. Users can, for example, log in with Face ID, Touch ID, or Windows Hello. Those who prefer two-factor authentication can instead use an authentication app together with their password.
Do you have questions about Flex HRM or want to learn more about how we approach security and login? Please feel free to contact us.
