MFA Is Essential—But It Doesn't Stop Every Account Takeover
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) provides a strong first line of defense, but it is not the only factor that determines whether an attacker can access your accounts.
After you sign in, your browser maintains access through a session token—a digital credential that tells applications you have already been authenticated. Think of it as a security wristband that grants continued access without requiring you to sign in again.
If an attacker steals that session token, they can bypass the MFA prompt entirely by replaying your authenticated session. In many cases, they gain access without ever needing your password or second authentication factor.
Why Layered Security Matters
Because modern attackers often focus on stealing active sessions instead of breaking through the login process, organizations must go beyond MFA and adopt a layered security approach.
Key protections include:
- Treating device security and device health as part of your identity strategy.
- Enforcing stricter session controls for high-risk users and sensitive resources.
- Implementing phishing-resistant authentication methods wherever possible.
- Monitoring for unusual login behavior and suspicious session activity.
- Detecting and responding to potential account compromise before significant damage occurs.
Reducing the Risk of Session Hijacking
When these security layers work together, MFA remains a powerful foundation while additional controls help prevent attackers from exploiting stolen session tokens.
Protecting authentication sessions is critical to reducing the risk of silent account takeovers and unauthorized access.
Need Help Strengthening Your Identity Security?
Contact us today to learn how we can help secure your users, devices, and authentication sessions with a layered security strategy designed to reduce the risk of account takeover.