Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is great for keeping your accounts secure, but not all methods are equal. Hackers are getting smarter, especially when it comes to SMS or phone-based MFA. In fact, Microsoft has even warned against using these methods since they’re easier to hack. The problem? Text messages aren’t encrypted, meaning hackers can intercept those one-time passcodes used for logging into things like online banking. They can carry out sneaky “man-in-the-middle” attacks and swipe your info before you even realise it!
The fix? Forget the phone-based MFA and switch to app-based authentication or security keys. Apps like Google Authenticator and Authy are much safer because they don’t rely on vulnerable text messages. Expect more banks and organizations to move away from SMS and use these more secure methods in the future.
So, if you’re still getting those “enter the code from your text” messages, it might be time for an upgrade! Stay a step ahead of the hackers and keep your accounts safe by switching to app-based MFA.
