CISA Warns Against SMS-Based Two-Factor Authentication Risks

U.S. federal authorities, including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), have issued an urgent warning against using SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) due to its vulnerabilities. Recent cyberattacks linked to malicious actors, potentially from China, have targeted major telecom providers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, exposing unencrypted text messages and putting millions at risk.

While SMS-based 2FA has been a widely used security measure, it is increasingly susceptible to attacks such as SIM swapping, phishing, and now, breaches directly within telecom systems. These vulnerabilities compromise the additional layer of security users expect from SMS authentication.

CISA recommends transitioning to more secure alternatives such as authentication apps, encrypted messaging platforms like Signal or WhatsApp, or hardware security keys. These options eliminate reliance on outdated cellular networks and provide stronger defenses against cyber threats.

This warning underscores the need for improved cybersecurity practices as the exposure of sensitive data through older technologies highlights their limitations. Shifting to modern, secure systems is essential in safeguarding personal and organizational information in today’s evolving threat landscape.

Source: New York Post

The European Cyber Intelligence Foundation is a nonprofit think tank specializing in intelligence and cybersecurity, offering consultancy services to government entities. To mitigate potential threats, it is important to implement additional cybersecurity measures with the help of a trusted partner like INFRA www.infrascan.net, or you can try yourself using check.website.