In today’s digital world, keeping your personal information safe is more important than ever. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a powerful tool that adds extra layers of protection beyond just your usual username and password. Instead of relying on just one piece of information, MFA asks for two or more verification steps to make sure it's really you trying to access your account. This extra security makes it much harder for someone to break into your account, even if they have one of your credentials.

As cyber threats continue to get more sophisticated, having a strong MFA setup is crucial. But not all MFA methods offer the same level of security. Here’s a handy guide to help you understand the different types of MFA, ranked from weakest to strongest, so you can choose the best option for keeping your personal information safe.

MFA Methods Ranked: From Weakest to Strongest

1. Email Verification

Email-based MFA is one of the weaker options. It works by sending you a verification code or link to your email that you need to use to log in. However, if someone manages to hack into your email account, they can easily bypass this level of security. So, while it adds small amount of protection, it’s not the most secure or reliable.

2. Text Messages (SMS)

With SMS-based MFA, you’ll get a time-sensitive code via text that you then enter to finish logging in. This option is more secure than email because it involves your phone, which is much harder for fraudsters to break in to. It's still vulnerable to threats like message interception and SIM swapping. These risks mean that SMS can sometimes be a weak link in your security chain; however, these threats are much less common, making text messages a more secure option.

3. Voice Calls

This method involves receiving a verification code through an automated voice call. While this method also uses your phone as an extra layer of security, you must answer the phone call and listen to the verification code that is provided to log in. This method is more secure than both email and text, but as with any one-time passcode fraudsters may call you pretending to be someone else and ask for the code. You must always remember to never give your one-time MFA passcode to anyone.

4. Authenticator Apps

Authenticator apps, such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator, are a much stronger option. They generate time-based, one-time codes on your device that refresh every 30 seconds. Since these codes are generated offline and not sent over the internet, they’re much harder to intercept. This makes authenticator apps a very secure choice for protecting your accounts.

Choosing the Best MFA Method for You

Using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a smart way to enhance your online security. Understanding these options helps you pick the right one for your needs, making your online accounts much safer from potential threats. Picking the right MFA method depends on what works best for you. Think about how sensitive your information is and what level of protection you need. Stronger methods offer better protection, but they should also be easy enough for you to use regularly.

Striking a balance between security and convenience is the best way to keep your information safe while ensuring that you can still easily access your accounts when you need to. It’s a good idea to start with the strongest option you can use comfortably, but remember that any form of MFA is more secure than just using passwords alone.

At Texans Credit Union, you have a variety of options ranging from SMS to voice calls and authenticator apps to provide you with various levels of protection and convenience to choose from to keep your Digital Banking account secure. If you have questions about setting up MFA or need help choosing the best option, don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you find the right security solution to keep your personal information safe and sound.