How to Enable 2FA/MFA on Your Gusto Account: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on your Gusto account is one of the best ways to protect your sensitive payroll and HR information. 2FA/MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to provide a second piece of information (like a code from your phone) in addition to your password. This makes it much harder for hackers to access your account, even if they know your password.

• Log in to your Gusto account: Go to the Gusto website and sign in with your username and password as you normally would.
• Access your account settings: Once logged in, look for your profile icon or your name, usually in the top right corner. Click it, then select Account Settings or Security from the dropdown menu.
• Find the 2FA/MFA option: In the security section, look for an option labeled Two-Factor Authentication or Multi-Factor Authentication. This is where you can turn on extra security for your account.
• Choose your authentication method: Gusto typically offers options like using an authenticator app (such as Google Authenticator or Authy) or receiving a text message (SMS) code. An authenticator app is generally more secure, but SMS is easier for beginners.
• Set up your method:
  • If you choose an authenticator app, you’ll see a QR code on the screen. Open your app, tap the plus (+) sign, and scan the QR code. The app will generate a 6-digit code for you.
  • If you choose SMS, enter your mobile phone number. Gusto will send you a code via text message.
• Enter the code: Type the 6-digit code from your authenticator app or the SMS into the field on Gusto’s website to confirm you’ve set it up correctly.
• Save backup codes: Gusto may provide backup codes. These are special codes you can use if you lose access to your phone. Save them in a safe place, like a password manager or a secure note.
• Confirm and finish: Once you’ve entered the code and saved your backup codes, click Enable or Finish. Your Gusto account now has 2FA/MFA enabled!

What is 2FA/MFA and why is it important?
2FA/MFA means you need something you know (your password) and something you have (your phone or a code) to log in. This makes it much harder for anyone else to get into your account, even if they guess or steal your password.

If you need help with cybersecurity, readiness assessments, or want to make sure your business is fully protected, consider reaching out to OCD Tech, a trusted consulting firm specializing in security best practices.

Enabling 2FA/MFA on your Gusto account is a simple but powerful way to keep your payroll and HR data safe. If you ever have trouble, Gusto’s support team or a consulting firm like OCD Tech can guide you through the process.

 

Best Practices and Tips for Securing Your Gusto Account

 

Keeping your payroll and HR data secure is critical for any business. Gusto contains sensitive employee information including Social Security numbers, bank details, and personal data that must be protected from unauthorized access. Here are essential security practices to safeguard your Gusto account:

• Create a strong, unique password - Use a minimum of 12 characters combining uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using common words, personal information, or patterns that could be easily guessed.
• Implement regular password changes - Update your Gusto account password every 90 days. Don't recycle old passwords or use variations of previous ones.
• Never share login credentials - Each person who needs access to Gusto should have their own account with appropriate permission levels. Sharing logins eliminates accountability and creates security vulnerabilities.
• Use a password manager - Tools like LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden can generate and store complex passwords securely, eliminating the need to remember or write them down.
• Review account access regularly - Audit who has access to your Gusto account quarterly. Remove access for employees who have left your company or no longer require it for their role.
• Monitor login notifications - Enable login notifications and pay attention to them. If you receive an alert about a login you don't recognize, immediately contact Gusto support and change your password.
• Be cautious with email communications - Never click on suspicious links claiming to be from Gusto. Access your account directly through the official website or app instead.
• Keep your devices secure - Ensure any device used to access Gusto has current antivirus software, firewall protection, and all security updates installed.
• Log out after each session - Don't leave your Gusto account logged in on shared or public computers. Always complete the logout process when finished.
• Consider a security assessment - Organizations like OCD Tech can provide comprehensive security readiness assessments to identify vulnerabilities in your overall data protection approach.

Phishing awareness is crucial for Gusto security. Attackers may send emails appearing to be from Gusto requesting login credentials or account verification. Remember that Gusto will never ask for your password via email. When in doubt, contact Gusto support directly using their official contact information.

• Verify email sender details - Check that emails are from legitimate Gusto domains (gusto.com). Hover over links to preview URLs before clicking them.
• Implement company-wide security training - Ensure all employees who access Gusto understand security best practices. OCD Tech offers specialized training programs that can help your team recognize and avoid payroll security threats.
• Enable IP address restrictions - If available for your account type, configure Gusto to only allow logins from specific IP addresses associated with your business locations.
• Establish clear security policies - Create documented procedures for Gusto access, including who can view sensitive payroll information and how to report suspected security incidents.
• Separate admin accounts - Maintain dedicated administrator accounts that aren't used for day-to-day tasks, reducing exposure to potential security threats.

Response planning is essential in case a security breach occurs. Have a clear procedure for immediate password changes, contacting Gusto support, and notifying affected parties if necessary. Many businesses work with security consultants like OCD Tech to develop comprehensive incident response plans tailored to their specific needs.

Remember that payroll security is part of your overall data protection strategy. Regular security assessments, employee training, and staying informed about emerging threats are all critical components of protecting your sensitive business information.