In the past few months we have seen more MFA bypass attacks and it is becoming alarmingly commonplace. Traditional ...
In the past few months we have seen more MFA bypass attacks and it is becoming alarmingly commonplace. Traditional methods of MFA are still better than nothing but unfortunately the new techniques hackers are using can get past some types of MFA. So what are the ways they can get past MFA, what is phishing resistant MFA and how can this prevent more attacks?
Understanding the Threat of Phishing
Phishing is a common tactic used by cybercriminals to trick individuals into disclosing sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details. Phishing attacks often involve fraudulent emails or websites that mimic legitimate sources, making it difficult for users to differentiate between what is real and what is fake. Once a user falls victim to a phishing attack, their credentials can be compromised, leading to potential data breaches and financial losses.
The Limitations of Traditional MFA
Traditional MFA methods typically rely on something the user knows (such as a password) and something the user has (such as a mobile device for receiving a verification code). While MFA significantly enhances security compared to using just a password, it is not immune to phishing attacks. Cybercriminals can still intercept verification codes or trick users into entering them on fake websites, compromising the security of MFA.
How are hackers bypassing MFA?
With the new methods hackers are using, some MFA methods are simply ineffective. For example, some are susceptible to cyberthreats, such as push bombing, in which cyberattackers push out a high volume of notifications to end users requesting they enter their credentials. Threat actors then use these legitimate credentials to gain initial access to victims' networks and then send a second factor to their own smartphone or other device to gain complete access.
SIM swap attacks are another phishing concept that outsmarts some MFA systems. Also referred to as simjacking, SIM swap attacks tap the mobile operators' number porting functions to take over accounts when the second control -- a call or text message to the user's mobile device -- is sent.
Phishing Resistant MFA
Phishing resistant MFA is designed to mitigate the risk of phishing attacks by incorporating additional security measures that make it harder for cybercriminals to compromise user credentials. One common method used in phishing resistant MFA is the use of biometric authentication, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, which cannot be easily replicated by attackers. One of the methods we recommend is Windows Hello. Windows Hello allows users to sign in to apps, devices and online services using their face, iris or fingerprint. By combining biometric authentication with traditional MFA methods, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to phishing attacks.
Implementing Phishing Resistant MFA in Your Business
To implement phishing resistant MFA in your business, consider partnering with us and having a discussion on which methods are most appropriate for your business. We can go over methods, costs and the process of implementation. We use MFA solutions that support biometric authentication, along with other security features such as adaptive risk-based authentication and real-time threat intelligence. It is also essential to educate your employees about the importance of recognizing phishing attempts and following best practices for verifying their identities.
Phishing resistant MFA is a powerful tool for enhancing security in today's threat landscape. By implementing advanced authentication solutions that incorporate biometric authentication and other security features, businesses can better protect their sensitive data and information from phishing attacks. Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing process, so stay vigilant and continually update your security measures to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.
Want to schedule a call with us to discuss implementing better MFA for your organization? We are here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions: Phishing-Resistant MFA
What is “phishing-resistant MFA” and how is it different from standard MFA?
Phishing-resistant MFA refers to authentication methods that are designed to resist credential theft, push-bombing, SIM-swap attacks and session-hijacking—scenarios where standard text codes or push notifications fail. It often incorporates biometrics, hardware tokens or contextual adaptive authentication.
Why aren’t standard MFA methods sufficient anymore?
The article describes threats like “push-bombing” (mass push notifications to approval prompts) and SIM-swap attacks, which allow an attacker to intercept or accept the second factor, thus bypassing standard MFA mechanisms.
What are examples of phishing-resistant MFA methods mentioned?
The article highlights biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint, facial recognition) and solutions that use adaptive risk-based authentication and real-time threat intelligence—these methods limit an attacker’s ability to mimic the legitimate user session.
How should a business implement phishing-resistant MFA?
Start by reviewing your current MFA deployment, then move to stronger methods for high-risk accounts (e.g., admins). Train staff on phishing awareness, implement hardware or biometric MFA where possible, and partner with an MSP to evaluate and roll out advanced MFA solutions.
What’s the main message for business leaders about MFA?
The core takeaway: simply enabling MFA is no longer enough. Businesses need to adopt phishing-resistant methods to keep up with modern threat actors. Upgrading to a stronger MFA should be part of an enterprise security strategy.
To learn even more about better MFA, watch the webinar I recently hosted on MFA hacker tactics: