How to Enable 2FA/MFA on Your KnowBe4 Account: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on your KnowBe4 account is one of the best ways to protect your sensitive information from cyber threats. 2FA/MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to provide a second form of verification, such as a code from your phone, in addition to your password. Here’s a simple, detailed guide for beginners:

• Log in to Your KnowBe4 Account: Go to the KnowBe4 login page and enter your username and password as usual.
• Access Your Account Settings: Once logged in, look for your profile icon or your name, usually at the top right corner. Click it and select ‘Account Settings’ or ‘Profile’ from the dropdown menu.
• Find the 2FA/MFA Section: In your account settings, look for a section labeled ‘Security’, ‘Two-Factor Authentication’, or ‘Multi-Factor Authentication’. This is where you’ll set up extra security for your account.
• Start the Setup Process: Click the button or link to enable 2FA/MFA. The system will guide you through the process. You may be asked to enter your password again for security.
• Choose Your Authentication Method: KnowBe4 usually supports authentication apps (like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy). Download one of these free apps on your smartphone if you don’t have one already.
• Scan the QR Code: The website will show you a QR code. Open your authentication app, select ‘Add Account’ or the plus (+) sign, and scan the QR code on your screen. This links your KnowBe4 account to your app.
• Enter the Verification Code: Your authentication app will generate a 6-digit code. Enter this code into the KnowBe4 website to confirm the setup.
• Save Backup Codes: KnowBe4 may provide backup codes. These are important! Save them in a safe place. If you lose access to your phone, you can use these codes to log in.
• Complete the Setup: Follow any final prompts to finish enabling 2FA/MFA. You may need to log out and log back in to test the new security feature.

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 hackers to access your account, even if they steal your password.
• It’s a simple but powerful way to protect your personal and company data from phishing, hacking, and other cyber attacks.

If you need expert help with cybersecurity, readiness assessments, or consulting, you can reach out to OCD Tech, a trusted firm specializing in these services.

Tips for a Smooth 2FA/MFA Experience:

• Always keep your authentication app updated and backed up if possible.
• Store your backup codes in a secure location, like a password manager or a locked drawer.
• If you change phones, transfer your authentication app before resetting your old device.
• Contact your IT department or OCD Tech if you have trouble accessing your account after enabling 2FA/MFA.

 

Best Practices and Tips for Securing Your Knowbe4 Account

 

Securing your Knowbe4 account is essential to protect your organization from phishing attacks and social engineering threats. Implementing the following best practices will help safeguard your account and maintain the integrity of your security awareness training program:

• Create a strong, unique password – Use a complex password with a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid easily guessable information such as birthdays or common words.
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) – Add an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification when logging in to your Knowbe4 account.
• Regularly update your password – Change your password periodically and avoid reusing previous passwords to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
• Be cautious with email links and attachments – Since Knowbe4 focuses on phishing awareness, always verify the authenticity of emails related to your account before clicking links or downloading files.
• Monitor account activity – Frequently review login history and account changes to detect any suspicious behavior early.
• Limit user permissions – Assign only the necessary access rights to users based on their roles to minimize potential damage if an account is compromised.
• Use secure network connections – Avoid accessing your Knowbe4 account over unsecured public Wi-Fi; use a VPN if needed to protect your data transmission.
• Keep your devices updated – Ensure your computers and mobile devices have the latest security patches and antivirus software installed.
• Log out after each session – Always sign out of your Knowbe4 account when finished, especially on shared or public devices.
• Enable account notifications – Set up alerts for critical activities such as password changes or login attempts from new devices to stay informed of potential security issues.
• Use a password manager – Consider a trusted password manager to securely store and manage your complex passwords for Knowbe4 and other services.
• Review third-party integrations carefully – Only authorize integrations with trusted applications to prevent introducing vulnerabilities into your Knowbe4 environment.

If you suspect your Knowbe4 account has been compromised, immediately change your password and notify your IT security team. Organizations seeking to strengthen their security posture can benefit from consulting with cybersecurity experts to conduct thorough assessments and implement tailored best practices.

Remember, maintaining the security of your Knowbe4 account is a shared responsibility. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can effectively reduce the risk of unauthorized access and protect your organization’s security awareness efforts.