Microsoft is Making MFA a Must: Why You Should Care, Even if You Don’t Use Azure
Microsoft recently announced a significant security update: all Azure sign-ins will soon require multi-factor authentication (MFA). This is a major step aimed at protecting user accounts across its platform. Even if your business doesn’t use Azure, this is important to note, because MFA is one of the simplest and most effective ways to safeguard your digital assets. In fact, Microsoft reports that MFA can block 99.9% of account compromise attacks.
What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
Think of MFA as adding an extra layer of security to your business’s “digital door.” These days, most of us log in with just a password, but passwords alone are no longer enough. In fact, Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report found that 74% of data breaches involved the use of stolen or weak credentials. MFA helps address this by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text code, app prompt, or a fingerprint scan.
This extra step means that even if a hacker steals your password, they won’t be able to access your accounts without this second form of verification.
A Minor Hassle, A Major Defense
Adding MFA to your login process might seem like a hassle, but it’s a small price to pay compared to the potential fallout from a data breach. The 2023 IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report found that the average cost of a data breach in the U.S. reached $9.48 million. Compare that with the extra few seconds it takes to use MFA, and it becomes clear why this added step is a smart investment.
MFA Options: Finding What Works for You
MFA isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some users prefer receiving a one-time passcode via text, while others prefer a push notification from apps like Microsoft Authenticator. If you want extra security, biometric options like fingerprint or facial recognition scans are available, or you can even use hardware security keys. It’s like upgrading from a basic lock to a full-on security system for your business’s digital assets.
Microsoft’s MFA Push: What It Means for You
Microsoft’s requirement for MFA across Azure is part of a broader trend toward increased cybersecurity measures. Starting in the second half of 2024, MFA will be mandatory for all users signing into the Azure portal and other admin centers. This requirement will expand to other Azure tools by early 2025 (source).
Even if your business doesn’t use Azure, it’s wise to adopt MFA for your platforms. Implementing MFA is a simple, effective way to protect against unauthorized access.
Need help setting up MFA for your business? That’s where we come in. We’ll make the process smooth and hassle-free, with minimal disruption to your day-to-day operations.