Multi-Factor Authentication Is Essential — But Not Invincible

Dear reader 

Most business leaders today know that multi-factor authentication (MFA) — that extra step when you log in using a one-time code, fingerprint, or face ID — has become a cornerstone of modern cybersecurity. It’s one of the best tools we have to stop hackers.

But there’s a growing challenge: cybercriminals have learned to work around it.

At Du Pont Solutions, our team continuously monitors these trends and applies the latest protections for our clients — often automatically, behind the scenes.

Here are five ways hackers are trying to bypass MFA — and what your business can do to prevent it.

1. Fake Login Pages — When “Looks Real” Isn’t Real

Hackers create login pages that look identical to the real ones. When someone enters their password and MFA code, the hacker captures both in real time.

What you can do:

• Always verify that a website address is correct before logging in.

• Deploy phishing-resistant MFA, such as passkeys or Windows Hello, and use “number matching” for added protection.

2. “MFA Fatigue” — Approving Just to Make It Stop

Attackers bombard users with repeated MFA prompts until someone hits “approve” out of irritation.

How to stay safe:

• Train employees never to approve unexpected login requests.

• Encourage them to report any strange MFA pop-ups.

• Use stronger options like hardware keys or number matching.

3. Stolen Session Tokens — Hacking Without Passwords

When a user logs in, systems like Microsoft 365 create a “session token” so they don’t have to re-enter credentials every few minutes. If malware steals that token, a hacker can access the account without needing a password or MFA.

Reduce your risk:

• Run advanced endpoint protection, like Microsoft Defender.

• Disable outdated sign-in methods.

• Watch for suspicious logins from different countries or devices.

4. “Trusted” Networks That Aren’t So Trustworthy

Many systems skip MFA inside “trusted” office networks. But if an attacker gains access to that same network, they can move through systems unnoticed.

What to do:

• Review your Conditional Access policies regularly.

• Don’t rely solely on network-based trust — verify devices and user compliance instead.

• Ensure MFA applies to all users, especially administrators.

5. Social Engineering — Hacking the Human Element

Some of the most successful attacks don’t involve code at all. Criminals impersonate staff or executives to trick service providers into resetting MFA or porting phone numbers.

Prevention tips:

• Avoid SMS-based MFA — use app-based or hardware authentication instead.

• Ensure identity verification is part of every MFA reset request.

• Regularly remove old or inactive user accounts.

The Next Step: Move Beyond MFA With Passkeys

The future of secure access is passkeys — they replace passwords entirely, allowing users to log in with their face, fingerprint, or a small hardware key.

Because the private key never leaves your device, passkeys are immune to phishing, fake sites, and token theft.

Getting started is easy — Du Pont can enable this across your Microsoft environment in just a few steps.

The CEO’s Takeaway

Cybersecurity isn’t about more technology — it’s about smarter, adaptive protection. MFA remains a critical layer, but it must evolve with your business and the threat landscape.

If you’d like Du Pont Solutions to review your security or ensure your MFA setup meets the latest standards, our team is ready to help. Together, we’ll keep your business secure, compliant, and one step ahead.