It is critical that Kiwi businesses recognise the importance of digital security.

Using two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is one way you can secure and protect your business and valuable information. It works by adding an additional layer of security to your online accounts, such as a uniquely-generated code sent to your phone when you login.

2FA is an easy step you can take to protect your business, and has a range of benefits, including:

• Strengthening login security.
• Meeting customer security expectations.
• Reducing the risk of data theft.
• Protecting you against risky access methods to your company’s computer network, like remote access.

There’s no shortage of 2FA solutions on the market, but the approach and the technology used can vary. Talk to your information security expert about the best solution for your business.

Where your business may be at risk:

• your email account
• a virtual private network
• any cloud-based service you use (such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft One Drive and Dropbox).

Two steps, too easy

New Zealand observes Privacy Week every year and CERT NZ (Computer Emergency Recovery Team NZ) is encouraging small-to-medium businesses to implement 2FA as part of its new ‘Two Steps, Too Easy’ campaign.

Two steps to make your business more cyber secure? Too easy! — CERT NZ

“By adding 2FA, you significantly reduce the risk of a cyber security attack,” says CERT NZ director Rob Pope. “This easy step gives you peace of mind when protecting your clients’ and customers’ data along with your own finances.”

“CERT NZ recommends setting 2FA for all your most important accounts – including banking, email and social media accounts.”

It is best to implement 2FA across the board. Personal social media accounts are likely linked to your business Facebook pages, so the extra layer of 2FA protection helps prevent identity theft and reputational damage if an attacker gets access to your personal account.

Experts estimate 2FA will stop up to 99% of attempts by hackers to access your business’s emails, bank accounts, or social media. These are called “account compromise attacks”.

Make sure your business’ information and that of your customers is secure by finding out more about 2FA. Visit the CERT NZ website for help.

Using two-factor authentication (2FA) to secure your business — CERT NZ

Source: https://www.business.govt.nz/news/keep-your-data-secure/