Whenever you hear security advice, topping the list of suggestions usually is multifactor authentication. Whether it’s securing an application, protecting a device, or logging into an account, MFA is highly recommended. Its rise in prominence comes from industry best practices or security requirements that demand its use to reduce the risk of potential breaches.

MFA provides a critical layer of defense within security, and boosts protection against the risk of unauthorized access, especially if passwords alone are the only defense layer in place. Given how quick and simple it can take to crack and breakthrough passwords, this is insufficient as a single source of security.

While MFA is still a robust safeguard, its efficacy can be undermined if accompanied by a weak or compromised password, which makes it highly vulnerable to being hacked and causing breaches. Manufacturing IT and OT operators must be wary of the fact that MFA isn’t a silver bullet for bad passwords—just like there isn’t the holy grail security solution on the market.

Unfortunately, MFA security can be bypassed, and this occurs in a number of ways—and often. As we explore these techniques, businesses need to be vigilant on the key element that multifactor authentication is designed to add protection for: passwords.