If your business still relies on passwords alone (single factor authentication) for logins you are putting your organization at risk of a data breach. Hackers (and their automated AI hacking tools) love small businesses because they often lack adequate defenses. But there’s one simple, low-cost (often free!) solution that can block 99.9% of automated attacks: enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on every account and system that supports it.
The Troubling Reality of Password-Only Security
- 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses, yet only 46% of SMBs use MFA, often because they consider it
- Microsoft reports that 99.9% of compromised accounts didn’t have MFA enabled.
- Google found that just adding MFA cuts account hacks by 50%.
These aren’t hypothetical risks. Every day, hackers launch millions of automated login attempts against cloud services like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace. Without MFA, a single stolen password can lead to data theft, ransomware, or even financial fraud.
MFA Isn’t Just for Big Corporations
Some small business owners assume MFA is too complex or disruptive (AKA annoying). But once you have it enabled and integrate it into your business routine, it’s simple and effective. Some of the ways MFA is implemented include:
- App-based codes (like Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator) are fast and secure. I personally use Authy as I love the layout and ease of use.
- Biometric logins (fingerprint or face scan) add convenience without sacrificing safety. Apple Face ID and Microsoft Hello are examples of biometric authentications that you can use.
- Even SMS codes, while not foolproof, are far better than nothing.
Is MFA a bit annoying? I admit that at first it was for me as well, until I got used to it. But the extra 5 seconds it takes to approve a login is trivial compared to the days (or weeks) of downtime a breach can cause.
Where Should You Enable MFA? Everywhere Possible.
Start with the basics:
- Email and cloud apps (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Dropbox)
- Banking and financial tools – this includes your business banking accounts and software like Quickbooks.
- Hardware logins such as Synology NAS’ and Sophos firewalls.
- Remote access systems (VPNs, RDP)
- Password managers like BitWarden and Keeper
Then expand to CRM platforms, marketing tools, and line of business apps – any and all services with sensitive data. If MFA is offered for the tool/service, it absolutely needs to be enabled.
The Bottom Line
If you don’t have MFA enabled you are putting your business at risk. With cyber insurance providers and clients increasingly demanding it, enabling MFA isn’t just about protection—it’s about professionalism and risk aversion.
Your action step today: Check your key accounts. If MFA is optional, turn it on. If you’re overwhelmed, start with email (where most breaches begin). And if you need help? That’s what IT partners are for.
Because in cybersecurity, the best defense is making hackers work harder—and MFA does exactly that.
P.S. If you found this helpful, share it with another business owner. Too many SMBs still think “It won’t happen to me.” Spoiler: It can.
Stay secure, stay connected!
Michael @ MZ DATA
Long Beach, CA
