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Summary
Two-factor authentication tools are security solutions that require users to verify their identity in two distinct ways—usually a password and a code or physical device—before granting access to accounts or data. These tools add a crucial layer of protection against hacking and unauthorized logins, making it much harder for attackers to break into your online accounts.
Use authenticator apps: Set up an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator on your phone to generate secure, time-based codes for logging in.
Try hardware keys: Consider using a physical security key, such as a YubiKey, for services where maximum protection is needed, since it requires you to physically approve access.
Enable 2FA everywhere: Turn on two-factor authentication for all your online accounts that support it, including banking, email, and social media, to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
Firewall Authentication using Fortinet's🛡⚔️ FortiGate and covers the following topics:
1. Overview of Firewall Authentication
Importance of authentication in firewalls.
Basic concepts of user and group-based authentication.
2. Methods of Authentication in FortiGate
Local Password Authentication.
Server-Based Password Authentication:
LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol).
RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service).
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
FortiToken (hardware and software tokens).
3. Configuring Authentication
Configuring LDAP and RADIUS servers.
Assigning user groups to firewall policies.
Testing authentication using CLI tools.
4. Authentication Techniques
Active Authentication: Prompts users for credentials.
Passive Authentication: Uses Single Sign-On (SSO) for seamless authentication.
5. Special Features and Configuration
Captive Portals for web-based user authentication.
Authentication timeouts for security and resource management.
Monitoring authenticated users via the firewall interface.
6. Practical Exercises
Configuring LDAP and RADIUS servers.
Assigning user groups to policies and testing their functionality.
#cybermadesimple#cyberweekend
Recently, a friend of mine shared that his home WiFi password was 54321. He thought it was a clever password since he used the numbers in reverse.
In reality, a simplistic password like “54321”would take less than a second for modern hacking tools to crack. With password-cracking software, attackers can use “brute-force methods” to quickly test such short, predictable combinations of numbers. Here are the following reasons why that password is vulnerable:
❌ Length: “54321” is only five characters, which is shorter than the recommended minimum of 12-14 characters.
❌ Character Variety: It includes only numbers, lacking the mix of uppercase, lowercase, symbols, and numbers that add complexity.
❌ Predictability: Being a simple sequential number, “54321” is very common and would likely appear in precomputed dictionaries that many password-cracking tools use.
Here are a few simple tips to help you level up your security with stronger passwords:
✅ Use Phrases, Not Just Words: Create memorable but random phrases and add a mix of uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters, randomly within the phrase. Phrases like “MyCatLovesCoffee22!” or “Zebra7BakesCakes@Sunset” are not too difficult to remember but almost impossible for others to guess and significantly harder for hackers to break.
✅ Avoid Names, Birthdays, and Dates: Resist the urge to use family names, birthdays, wedding dates, or anything personal. Hackers can find this information very quickly, especially with a little social media research.
✅ Never Write Down Passwords: Writing passwords down or keeping them in easily accessible notes can lead to accidental exposure. A good password manager can safely store your passwords and auto-fill them when needed.
However, strong passwords are just the beginning. For extra protection, consider enabling modern authentication methods.
🔶 Traditional two-factor authentication (2FA), such as SMS codes, can provide an added layer of security. However, there’s mounting evidence that SMS-based methods are increasingly vulnerable to SIM swaps and interception, where attackers take control of your phone number to receive those codes.
🔶 To truly secure your accounts, consider phishing-resistant MFA methods such as app-based authenticators (like Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator or Authy) or, even better, hardware security keys like YubiKeys.
🔶 Authenticator apps generate time-based codes that are more secure than SMS, while hardware keys require physical access, making them resistant to phishing attacks.
🔶 A hardware key like a YubiKey can be purchased online and works seamlessly with most major services.
For anyone still using simple passwords, I’m reminded of the funny but powerful message:
“I drink, because your password is PASSWORD.”
#passwordsecurity#passwordprotection#passwordmanager#modernauthentication#staysafeonline
Today's #cybersecurity tip:
You don't need a VPN for personal use. Your traffic to email, bank, shopping, social, and other sites are usually already encrypted.
Instead, I recommend making sure you have Two Factor Authentication ("2FA") enabled on every account that offers it. Text messages with codes are OK if that's all a site offers, but for higher security, consider an authenticator app that generates codes on your phone (e.g., Google Authenticator), or even a physical security key.
Why Two-Factor Authentication is Non-Negotiable in Today’s Digital Age
In our rapidly evolving digital landscape, the rise in sophisticated hacking attempts cannot be ignored. As someone witnessing hundreds of these attempts daily (including on Linkedin), I can't stress enough the importance of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for every online account. Generative AI advancements have only heightened the risks, making 2FA not just advisable but essential.
2FA serves as a critical second line of defense, requiring a second form of verification beyond just a password. Whether it's a code sent to your phone, a biometric scan, or a physical token, 2FA significantly diminishes the chances of unauthorized access.
**Why Activate 2FA?**
- **Security Enhancement**: Significantly reduces the likelihood of account breaches.
- **Fraud Prevention**: Guards against identity theft and financial fraud.
- **Peace of Mind**: Provides confidence that your digital presence is more secure.
Given the frequency of attack attempts I observe, the need for immediate action is clear. Here are top 2FA apps to consider:
- **Microsoft Authenticator**
- **Google Authenticator**
- **Authy**
- **LastPass Authenticator**
Prioritize services offering 2FA and consider it a red flag if it's absent. It's time to demand better security standards and proactively protect our digital identities.
Let's unite in bolstering our digital security. Enable 2FA on all your accounts without delay. The cost of inaction is too high. #CyberSecurity#TwoFactorAuthentication#ProtectYourDigitalLife