SMS-based one-time codes are also phishable via open source and readily available phishing tools.įurther, phone network employees can be tricked into transferring phone numbers to a threat actor’s SIM card, allowing attackers to receive MFA one-time codes on behalf of their victims. The problem with SMS is that it’s transmitted in cleartext and can be easily intercepted by determined attackers. Modern smartphones can recognize an MFA text and allow you to copy your one time password for easy use. It’s widely supported by a large number of companies ( though not all, Disney+ is a notable exception) and convenient to use. SMS is the most popular MFA method since it’s easy to enable and start using.
Text (SMS) Multi-Factor Authentication vs Other Methods SMS, the most widely used form of MFA, is actually the least secure method of MFA available thanks to security issues inherent in the telephone network. It can be compromised, and some methods are less secure than others.
Microsoft tracks hundreds of millions of malicious login attempts daily and has scored MFA as 99.9% effective. This usually, depending on the method, has the added benefit of immediately notifying the user of an unauthorized sign-in attempt, allowing them to take action to resecure their account. Access is only granted when both passwords are entered, and the second password is generated and sent to the device of the account holder. This additional layer of authentication helps to stop an attacker from accessing the account even if the first password is compromised. It can also be sent via an email or through an authenticator app. The most common way is a text (SMS) message. This password can be delivered in a number of ways. The user enters it first (hopefully with a password manager!) and is then prompted to enter a one-time password as the second authentication factor. The first authentication method is typically a traditional password.
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