How to Enable 2FA/MFA on a HubSpot Account: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on your HubSpot account is one of the most effective ways to protect your sensitive business data. 2FA/MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring not just your password, but also a second verification step—usually a code from your phone. This makes it much harder for hackers to access your account, even if they know your password.

• Log in to your HubSpot account using your usual email and password at HubSpot Login.
• Access your account settings by clicking your profile picture (top right corner), then selecting Profile & Preferences from the dropdown menu.
• In the left sidebar, find and click on Security. This is where you manage your account’s security features.
• Look for the Two-factor authentication section. Click Set up two-factor authentication to begin the process.
• Choose your preferred 2FA method:
  • Authentication app (recommended): Use an app like Google Authenticator or Authy on your smartphone. These apps generate a unique code every 30 seconds.
  • SMS text message: Receive a code via text message. This is less secure than an app, but still much better than no 2FA.
• If you select an authentication app:
  • Open your chosen app and scan the QR code displayed on HubSpot’s screen.
  • The app will generate a 6-digit code. Enter this code into HubSpot to verify the connection.
• If you select SMS:
  • Enter your mobile phone number.
  • HubSpot will send you a 6-digit code via text. Enter this code to confirm your phone number.
• Save your backup codes. HubSpot will provide a set of one-time-use backup codes. Store these in a safe place (not on your computer or email) in case you lose access to your phone.
• Finish setup. Once you’ve verified your method, 2FA/MFA will be enabled. The next time you log in, you’ll be asked for a code from your app or SMS.

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 app) to log in. This greatly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if your password is stolen.

If you need help with cybersecurity best practices, readiness assessments, or want to ensure your HubSpot and other business accounts are fully protected, consider reaching out to OCD Tech, a trusted consulting and readiness-assessment firm.

Tips for managing 2FA/MFA on HubSpot:

• Always keep your backup codes secure and offline.
• If you change your phone, update your 2FA settings immediately.
• Regularly review your security settings for all business-critical accounts.
• Consult with experts like OCD Tech for tailored security solutions and ongoing support.

 

Securing Your HubSpot Account: A Comprehensive Guide

 

Securing your HubSpot account is critical for protecting your business data and customer information. With digital threats constantly evolving, implementing robust security measures has become essential for any organization using marketing automation platforms. Let's explore the best practices to keep your HubSpot account safe from unauthorized access and potential breaches.

Strong Password Practices

 

Creating and maintaining strong passwords is your first line of defense:

• Use passwords with at least 12 characters that include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdates, company names, or common words.
• Create unique passwords for HubSpot that aren't used for other accounts.
• Consider using a password manager (like LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden) to generate and store complex passwords securely.
• Change your HubSpot password every 90 days or immediately if you suspect any security issues.

User Access Management

 

Properly managing who has access to your HubSpot account is crucial:

• Implement the principle of least privilege – only give users access to the specific tools and data they need to perform their job functions.
• Regularly audit user accounts and remove access for employees who have left the company or changed roles.
• Utilize HubSpot's user roles and permissions to create appropriate access levels for different team members.
• Consider setting up Single Sign-On (SSO) if available on your plan to centralize authentication.
• Limit Super Admin privileges to only 2-3 trusted individuals within your organization.

Session Security Settings

 

Enhance your account protection with these session security measures:

• Enable automatic session timeout to log users out after periods of inactivity (30 minutes is recommended).
• Restrict login access by IP address if your team works from fixed locations.
• Monitor and review login activity logs regularly to detect unusual access patterns or unauthorized login attempts.
• Ensure team members log out of shared computers and devices when finished working.
• Consider implementing browser security extensions that help protect against phishing and malware.

API Key and Integration Security

 

Protect your connected applications and API access:

• Regularly audit all third-party integrations connected to your HubSpot account.
• Revoke API keys and access tokens that are no longer needed.
• Use unique API keys for different integrations to limit exposure if one key is compromised.
• Store API keys securely and never expose them in client-side code or public repositories.
• Implement IP restrictions for API access when possible.

Regular Security Assessments

 

Proactive security monitoring keeps your account safe:

• Conduct quarterly security reviews of your HubSpot instance and connected systems.
• Review account activity logs to identify unusual patterns or potential security incidents.
• Consider working with security specialists like OCD Tech for comprehensive security assessments and vulnerability testing.
• Stay informed about HubSpot's latest security features and implement them promptly.
• Document your security protocols and ensure all team members understand compliance requirements.

Data Protection Best Practices

 

Safeguard the data within your HubSpot account:

• Regularly back up your HubSpot data using the platform's export tools.
• Implement data minimization principles – only collect and store the customer data you actually need.
• Create and enforce clear data handling policies for your marketing and sales teams.
• Ensure compliance with relevant data protection regulations like GDPR, CCPA, or industry-specific requirements.
• Consider engaging OCD Tech for data protection readiness assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities in your systems.

Team Security Training

 

Your team members are crucial to maintaining security:

• Provide regular security awareness training for all HubSpot users in your organization.
• Educate team members about phishing threats specifically targeting marketing platforms.
• Create clear security protocols and document them in an accessible security policy.
• Establish a process for reporting suspected security incidents.
• Conduct periodic simulated phishing tests to assess team awareness.

Responding to Security Incidents

 

Be prepared to act quickly if security is compromised:

• Develop an incident response plan specifically for your HubSpot account.
• Know how to immediately change passwords and revoke suspicious access.
• Maintain contact information for HubSpot support and your internal IT security team.
• Document any security incidents thoroughly for future prevention.
• Consider having security experts like OCD Tech on standby for emergency incident response support.

By implementing these comprehensive security measures, you'll significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches in your HubSpot account. Remember that security is an ongoing process that requires regular attention and updates as new threats emerge and your business needs evolve.