Akamai MFA, a phishing-proof solution

Akamai has announced the launch of Akamai MFA, a solution that aims to tackle any phishing attack. To achieve this, the solution allows ICT departments to quickly implement multifactor authentication with FIDO2 without the need to implement or manage physical security keys.

Akamai MFA uses a mobile app that converts existing smartphones into a physical security key for a seamless user experience. Attackers can easily manipulate and reproduce current non-FIDO2 MFA approaches through phishing or middleman attacks . FIDO2 is the industry standard for secure MFA delivery and is the starting point for authentication without passwords or users.

To achieve this level of security, companies today need to distribute and manage physical keys, which entails additional costs and increases complexity. ‍Akamai MFA is designed to provide an intuitive, phishing-proof experience for employees using the strongest standards-based authentication method available and using a mobile app instead of a physical security key.

The solution leverages the FIDO2 standard, which provides end-to-end cryptography and a sealed challenge / response flow, enabling enterprises to obtain the best multi-factor security at no additional cost and offering an easy upgrade path as their authentication needs evolve. ‍ "Standard two-factor push notifications are easily compromised unless businesses implement and manage physical security keys, adding significant complexity," Rick McConnell, president and CEO of Akamai's Security Technology Group.

“Akamai MFA offers all the benefits of the FIDO2 standards and uses a phishing-proof notification on a smartphone that enables businesses to reach the next level of MFA security without the need for physical security keys.” “Regarding to MFA technologies, push notifications are the best. There is nothing easier, and adding FIDO2 phishing-proof protection makes it safe, ”said Jay Bretzmann, Program Director for IDC Security Products.

“Akamai understands the need for simple authentication approaches because it is at the forefront of identity and access technologies, and increasingly lends its expertise to workplace deployments as we all address the realities of remote employees due to COVID-19 ″ .‍Akamai MFA is deployed on the Akamai Intelligent Edge Platform and can be activated and centrally managed through the Enterprise Center; Plus, it offers global reach and scale, ensuring resilience and performance.

The service integrates with market-leading identity providers such as Microsoft Azure AD, Okta, and Akamai's Enterprise Application Access. Additional integrations support Secure Communications Protocol (SSH) and Windows login use cases.