Why passwords aren't enough
Passwords get phished, reused and leaked in breaches. On their own, they're simply not enough to protect business accounts anymore.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a second check, usually an app prompt or code, so a stolen password alone won't let an attacker in.
How much difference it makes
MFA blocks the overwhelming majority of automated account-takeover attacks. It's the reason so many insurers and standards, including Cyber Essentials, now expect it.
For most businesses, it's the highest-impact security control relative to its cost and effort.
Rolling it out well
MFA works best when it's applied everywhere it matters and made easy for staff:
- Enable MFA on email, cloud and remote access
- Prefer app-based or hardware methods over SMS where possible
- Combine it with a password manager
- Support staff through setup to avoid frustration
Beyond the basics
Modern approaches go further with conditional access, applying stronger checks for risky sign-ins while staying frictionless for normal ones. That balance of security and usability is what keeps MFA working in practice.