Multi-Factor Authentication(MFA)

 Multi-Factor Authentication(or MFA for short) may seem like a big, intimidating term or idea, but when actually put into practice, it can be very simple and secure. For those that have never had to deal with MFA, it is simply an extra layer of security that requires the user to authenticate that they are the person that needs to be logging into their account via more than one means. Most online accounts that you create will require a password that you create, but with MFA, the account will simply require an extra step before signing in. The most convenient option tends to be an SMS text message that contains a unique, temporary sign-in code that can only be used once. 

Of course, this would require a little extra set up time when creating your account, and when logging in, and this may seem like a major downside to MFA, because nobody likes to willing slow down their access to their accounts. However, this mild inconvenience is well worth it. Microsoft states that using MFA with your online accounts can prevent up to 99.9% of attacks on your account. Personally, I think the extra 30 seconds it takes to receive and input a text message is well worth keeping my credit card information safe. 

The actual process of setting up Multi-Factor Authentication varies depending on what software you use for it, and for the most part this does have to be outsourced. Microsoft has their own MFA process that is relatively easy and quick to go through. This process might take some time and slow you down a little, but it is well worth it.