6 Ways Cyberattackers Defeat 2FA and What You Can Do About It

Two-factor authentication (2FA) has long been heralded as a robust security measure, but as with any technology, it is not infallible. Cyberattackers have developed numerous methods to bypass 2FA, exploiting vulnerabilities and manipulating users to gain unauthorized access. Here are the six most common ways attackers defeat 2FA and what you can do to protect your accounts. 

1. Real-Time Phishing

Real-time phishing involves attackers creating fake websites or sending deceptive emails to trick users into revealing their authentication details. This method is highly effective because it targets the human element of security. For instance, tools like “ReelPhish” automate this process, making it easier for attackers to capture 2FA codes as they are entered by the user.

Prevention Tips:

• Be cautious with unsolicited emails and messages.
• Verify the authenticity of the websites you visit.
• Use browser extensions that detect and block phishing sites.

2. Man-in-the-Middle (MiTM) Attacks

In MiTM attacks, hackers intercept the communication between the user and the service. By creating a proxy login page, attackers can capture both the user’s credentials and the 2FA code. This method bypasses 2FA entirely by hijacking the session cookies, which contain all necessary authentication data.

Prevention Tips:

• Ensure your connection is secure by looking for HTTPS in the URL.
• Use VPNs to encrypt your internet traffic.
• Implement security solutions that can detect and block MiTM attacks.

3. SIM Swapping

SIM swapping involves tricking mobile carriers into transferring the victim’s phone number to a SIM card controlled by the attacker. Once the number is transferred, the attacker can receive all SMS-based 2FA codes intended for the victim.

Prevention Tips:

• Use app-based authenticators instead of SMS-based 2FA.
• Set up a PIN or password with your mobile carrier.
• Monitor your mobile carrier account for unauthorized changes.

4. Notification Fatigue

Attackers exploit users’ tendency to approve multiple authentication requests out of frustration. By bombarding the user with numerous push notifications, they hope the user will eventually approve a fraudulent request.

Prevention Tips:

• Be mindful of authentication requests and approve only those you initiate.
• Use 2FA methods that do not rely on push notifications.
• Implement multi-layered security measures to detect and mitigate unauthorized access attempts.

5. OAuth Consent Phishing

OAuth consent phishing targets users who are already logged in. Attackers create malicious applications that request access to user data through OAuth. Once the user grants permission, the attacker gains access to their account without needing to bypass 2FA directly.

Prevention Tips:

• Carefully review permission requests from third-party applications.
• Revoke access to applications you no longer use.
• Use security tools that can identify and block malicious OAuth requests.

6. Malware

Malware can capture 2FA codes directly from the user’s device. For instance, Android malware can scrape and forward OTPs to attackers, allowing them to bypass 2FA.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep your devices and software updated with the latest security patches.
• Use reliable antivirus and anti-malware solutions.
• Avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources.

While 2FA is widely used, it is not foolproof. Understanding these common attack methods is crucial to strengthening your defenses. By staying informed and implementing layered security measures, you can better protect your accounts from these sophisticated cyber threats. 

Learn more about SecureAuth’s advanced multi-factor authentication (MFA) capabilities and book a demo today.