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- Improved Security. A password can easily be lost or forgotten. Many people write their passwords down or use familiar details that can either be guessed or found out. The use of 2FA will ensure that this won’t happen. Even if someone does guess or find out a person’s password, they would not be able to provide the relevant second element such as a smart card generated code or finger print. Without these factors, any potential hacker will be denied access.
- Lower Risk. The use of 2FA lowers risk and the potential for unscrupulous behaviour. It minimises the potential for someone to guess or find out what someone’s password is. Using a basic authentication methodology (e.g. single password) is extremely risky given that the technology available is easy to implement and use thereby mitigating potential problems. If a single password is used it can be easy to find out as some organisations will simply enable a user to request a new ID. If access to that person’s email is gained or the responding email read, then the access to any given system without 2FA is achievable.
- Save Money. Perhaps the main issue for individuals and companies alike is that illegal access to a bank account can mean the theft of money.
- Reduced Data Theft. Illegal access to a network or organisational information can lead to theft of valuable data. This can lead to issues from losing credibility and loss of business as a result, to people that have been effected taking legal action in order to redress their personal loss.
- Increased Flexibility. More and more companies allow personnel to work remotely allowing greater flexibility in working practices and of course greater mobility.
- Can be used as part of a Disaster Recovery or Business Continuity programme. If people are unable to get into the office, for example because of transport strikes, bad weather, terrorism or damage to the building from fire or floods, the use of 2FA enables employees to securely access the company’s network. As a result, work and business can continue as normal. It should be noted that the device may not be recognised as company property i.e. personal iPad as opposed to company issue laptop.
- Improved Productivity. Allowing employees to work remotely can lead to improved productivity. People can work flexible hours according to family circumstances or work preferences. Saving on travel time and costs can increase work output and morale.
- Convenience for users. Using even a simple password can be problematic. Often passwords are written down (as a memory aid) or used for multiple systems such as bank card, system access and email, making it easy for criminals to ‘second guess’ what a password might be.
- 2FA is available in a number of guises including, hardware, software, on-demand and integrated into mobile applications in order to support a wide range of end user requirements. For example, the same solution can be used for desktop PC’s, notebooks and mobile devices/smart phones.
- Ease of use. Allows for a faster, easier and improved user experience.
- Compliance. 2FA addresses compliance requirement issues (e.g. PCI, HIPPA, CJIS, Data Protection Act) and audit requirements.