Identity and Access Management (Policy Development & Implementation) & Two-Factor Authentication
Identity and Access Management (Policy Development & Implementation)
- Identity and Access Management (IAM) plays a vital role in ensuring the security and confidentiality of an organization’s sensitive information and systems. This makes sure that only authorized individuals have access to an organization’s sensitive information, systems, and resources.
- IAM helps mitigate the risk of data breaches, ensures regulatory compliance, and simplifies user provisioning and deprovisioning. This can be implemented through policy development and technology implementations. IAM solutions include:
- Authentication and Authorization Devices (to verify user identities, such as tokens or security keys)
- IAM Software (to manage user identities, roles, and access rights, such as Microsoft Active Directory)
- Network Access Control (to enforce security polices and network access based on user identities, including firewalls, VPNs, and NAC solutions)
- Privileged Access Management (to manage and control access to privileged accounts and data, such password vaults and other PAM devices)
What is Two Factor Authentication
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), also known as two-step verification or multi-factor authentication (MFA), is a security process in which a user provides two different authentication factors to verify their identity. These factors typically fall into three categories:
- Knowledge factors: Something the user knows, such as a password or PIN.
- Possession factors: Something the user has, such as a mobile device, smart card, or security token.
- Inherence factors: Something the user is, typically biometric data like fingerprints or retina scans.
The main purpose of 2FA is to add an extra layer of security beyond just a password. Passwords alone are vulnerable to various attacks, including phishing, brute force attacks, and credential stuffing. If a password is compromised, an attacker could gain unauthorized access to an account or system.
By requiring a second form of authentication, even if an attacker manages to obtain the user’s password, they would still need the additional factor to access the account. This significantly enhances security and makes it more challenging for unauthorized individuals to gain access.
Common implementations of 2FA include receiving a time-sensitive code via SMS, using a mobile app (like Google Authenticator or Authy) to generate one-time codes, or using biometric data along with a password. Many online services, banking institutions, and other organizations now encourage or mandate the use of 2FA to protect user accounts and sensitive information.
Two-Factor Authentication is needed to enhance security by requiring users to provide two different authentication factors, making it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to access accounts or systems, even if they have obtained the user’s password.
Need Cybersecurity Help Now?
Are you in need of a cybersecurity evaluation? Is your organization facing a threat? Get in touch with us today!
Fast support