In SMEs, your email and cloud accounts are more than just communication tools — they’re the gateway to your entire business. From invoices and client data to contracts and logins, these accounts hold the keys to your organisation.
That’s why multi-factor authentication (MFA) is no longer optional. It’s essential.
What is MFA?
MFA adds a second step when logging in. Instead of just a password, you confirm your identity with something else — a code sent to your phone, an authenticator app, or even a biometric scan.
It means that even if a cybercriminal steals your password, they still can’t get in.
Why Passwords Alone Aren’t Enough
- Passwords are stolen every day through phishing emails, data breaches and malware.
- Staff reuse passwords across multiple accounts, increasing risk.
- Simple or guessable passwords can be cracked in seconds.
One weak password could expose your entire Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace environment — including sensitive files, client emails and financial data.
The Cost of Ignoring MFA
Without MFA, one hacked account can lead to:
- Financial fraud — attackers impersonating staff or directors.
- Data loss — files deleted, stolen, or held for ransom.
- Reputation damage — clients losing trust in your security.
- Compliance failures — fines for not safeguarding customer data.
For a small business, this could mean thousands in losses — or worse.
The Benefits of MFA for SMEs
Enabling MFA is:
- Fast — it takes minutes to set up.
- Affordable — most cloud services like Microsoft 365 include it at no extra cost.
- Effective — it blocks over 99% of account-hijacking attempts.
It’s one of the highest-impact, lowest-cost security measures you can take.
How Launch IT Solutions Helps
At Launch IT Solutions, we make MFA rollout simple. We:
- Configure MFA across all business accounts.
- Train your staff on how to use it.
- Provide backup and recovery options if devices are lost.
- Combine MFA with other security layers like email filtering and secure backups.
Final Word
Cybercriminals don’t just target large enterprises — SMEs across Leicestershire, Warwickshire, The Cotswolds and the wider UK are hit every day. By enabling MFA on all email and cloud accounts, you protect your business, your clients, and your reputation.
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