MFA: A Simple Step Toward Stronger Cybersecurity

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time when organizations across the country spotlight the importance of protecting digital infrastructure and personal data. For local governments, this month is both a reminder and a call to action.

Municipalities are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals due to the essential services they provide and the sensitive data they manage. From managing service requests to communicating emergency alerts to processing payments, local government systems are deeply embedded in residents’ daily lives. That makes them high-value—and high-risk—targets.

One of the most effective ways to strengthen your cybersecurity posture is by implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

This blog explores what MFA is, why it’s critical for local government staff, and how to get started with a rollout.

What Is MFA?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security measure that requires users to verify their identity using more than one method before gaining access to a system. Instead of relying solely on a password, MFA adds additional layers of protection, such as:

• A password or PIN
• A smartphone, security token, or smart card
• Biometric data like a fingerprint or facial recognition

This layered approach makes it significantly harder for attackers to gain unauthorized user access, even if one factor (like a password) is compromised.

How MFA Supports Cybersecurity in Local Government

MFA is a critical defense mechanism that helps protect municipal systems from unauthorized access and disruption, making it one of the most effective tools available to strengthen cybersecurity across digital platforms. Here’s how it helps:

1. Protects Sensitive Resident and Staff Data

Government systems often store personally identifiable information (PII), financial records, and internal communications. MFA helps ensure that only verified staff can access these systems, reducing the risk of data breaches that could compromise resident privacy or disrupt operations.

2. Defends Against Phishing and Credential Theft

Phishing attacks, which use fraudulent emails or messages to trick individuals into clicking malicious links, downloading attachments, or sharing sensitive information, are a common cybersecurity threat to public sector employees. MFA adds a critical layer of defense—even if a password is stolen, attackers cannot access the system without a second form of verification, such as a code sent to a mobile device.

3. Secures Remote and Mobile Access

With staff working from various locations and physical devices, MFA helps ensure secure access to systems regardless of where employees are logging in. This is especially important for onsite workers and other staff who rely on mobile tools.

4. Limits the Impact of Breaches

If a single account is compromised, MFA can prevent attackers from moving laterally through the network. This containment helps minimize damage and gives IT teams time to respond before further systems are affected.

5. Supports Compliance with Government Standards

Federal and state cybersecurity frameworks increasingly require MFA for access to sensitive systems. Implementing MFA helps local governments meet these requirements and demonstrates a proactive approach to risk management.

6. Builds Public Trust and Confidence

Residents expect their local government to protect their data. MFA shows that your municipality takes cybersecurity seriously and is committed to safeguarding community information.

Best Practices for Getting Started with MFA

Rolling out MFA across a local government organization doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some practical steps to get started:

1. Assess Your Systems

Identify which platforms and applications handle sensitive data or provide public-facing services. Prioritize MFA implementation for these systems first.

2. Choose the Right Multifactor Authentication Methods

Select MFA options that suit your staff’s needs. Common methods include:

• Authenticator apps (e.g., Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator)
• SMS or email codes
• Hardware tokens

3. Educate Your Team

Provide clear guidance on what MFA is, why it’s being implemented, and how to set it up. Training sessions, FAQs, and help desk support can ease the transition.

4. Start with a Pilot Program

Test MFA with a small group of users before rolling it out organization-wide. This helps identify technical issues and gather feedback.

5. Monitor and Adjust

After implementation, monitor usage and address any challenges. Be ready to adjust authentication methods or provide additional support as needed.

Strengthen Your Cybersecurity Posture with MFA

MFA is a simple yet powerful tool for improving cybersecurity. For local governments, it’s not just about protecting systems—it’s about protecting communities. By adopting MFA thoughtfully and proactively, staff can help ensure that public services remain secure, reliable, and trusted. Our team always recommends implementing MFA, whenever available, as a best practice and part of a comprehensive cybersecurity program.