2FA for VPN (Two-factor authentication for Virtual Private Networks)

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure, encrypted connection over the internet, allowing users to access the internet or company resources safely. Organizations typically use VPNs for two main reasons: 1) to enable remote access to internal networks for employees working from anywhere, and 2) enhance security by encrypting data and protecting against interception.

However, organizations might want to consider adding extra security around the end users logging into VPN connections. While VPNs provide a secure tunnel, they can still be vulnerable to attacks such as brute-force techniques, man-in-the-middle attacks, and malware. Additional security measures two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) add an extra layer of protection.

Why should VPN end users have 2FA enabled?

2FA helps protect end users when accessing VPNs by requiring more than one method of verification to gain access. On top of the end user’s password, this typically involves something the user has (like a smartphone or security token) or a biometric factor (like a fingerprint). By adding these additional layers of verification, 2FA/MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if the password becomes compromised. This ensures that only legitimate users can connect to the VPN, thereby enhancing the overall security of the network and the data it protects.

Given the prevalence of compromised passwords and the amount of end users who reuse passwords, this is an important risk to mitigate. VPN passwords are often the same as Active Directory passwords, so they’re dangerous in the hands of hackers.

What is RADIUS MFA?

VPNs are an important security factor when it comes to remote access, but they’re not infallible. For example, Specops research has found millions of VPN credentials stolen by malware. RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) is a commonly-used protocol that lets users access VPNs, as well as other network services. By integrating MFA with your RADIUS server, you’re ensuring a second factor of verification is required, even if VPN credentials have been stolen.

What are the benefits for organizations enabling 2FA in VPN?

Organizations benefit from 2FA in VPN by significantly reducing the risk of cyber-attackers gaining unauthorized access to its network and sensitive data via a VPN. MFA adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for attackers to gain entry even if they manage to steal a user’s password. This enhanced security helps protect against data breaches, which can lead to financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities.

MFA also helps organizations comply with regulatory requirements and industry standards that mandate strong authentication methods. This can help organizations avoid fines and maintain their compliance status. Additionally, MFA can improve user confidence in the security of their remote connections, leading to better productivity and fewer security-related disruptions.

Overall, adding MFA for VPN users is a proactive measure that helps protect sensitive data, maintain operational integrity, and ensure regulatory compliance.

MFA adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for attackers to gain entry even if they manage to steal a user’s password.

What risks are reduced by setting up MFA for VPN?

Adding MFA to VPN logins reduces several key cyber-attack risks:

Brute-force attacks: These attacks involve systematically trying different passwords until the correct one is found. MFA makes this approach ineffective because even if an attacker guesses the password, they still need a second form of authentication.
Phishing attacks: Phishing attempts to trick users into revealing their login credentials. MFA can prevent unauthorized access even if a user falls for a phishing scam, as the attacker would still need the second factor.
Credential stuffing: This involves using stolen credentials from one service to gain access to another. MFA ensures that even if credentials are compromised, the attacker cannot use them without the additional verification factor.
Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks: In these attacks, an attacker intercepts and possibly alters the communication between two parties. MFA can help prevent such attacks by requiring a second form of verification that is typically not intercepted.
Insider Threats: MFA can also help mitigate risks from insider threats by ensuring that only authorized individuals, even within the organization, can access sensitive resources.

How does MFA for VPN work from an end user perspective?

Using 2FA for a VPN login involves an additional but simple step from an end user’s perspective.

When a user attempts to connect to a VPN session, they’ll enter their username and password as usual
After submitting these credentials, they’ll be prompted for a second form of verification (in some cases more). For example, a push notification comes through the user who needs to access their device and input a biometric factor on a mobile app.
The end user then inputs this second factor to complete the authentication process

One additional simple step for the end user has a big effect on your AD access security

How does MFA help with compliance?

Your exact compliance lookout will vary based on your industry and location, but adding MFA to VPN logins can help with compliance in several ways:

Regulatory requirements: Many regulations and standards, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), require or strongly recommend the use of multi-factor authentication to protect sensitive data. Implementing MFA for VPN logins helps organizations meet these regulatory requirements.
Audit readiness: Compliance audits often involve reviewing security measures to ensure they meet industry standards. MFA is a well-recognized and effective security measure that can be easily documented and demonstrated during audits, making the process smoother and more transparent.
Risk management: Compliance frameworks often emphasize risk management. MFA reduces the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches, which are critical concerns for compliance. By implementing MFA, organizations can demonstrate a proactive approach to managing and mitigating security risks.
Data protection: Many compliance standards focus on protecting sensitive data. MFA helps ensure that only authorized users can access the network and the data it contains, thereby reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized data access.
User accountability: MFA can help establish a higher level of user accountability. If a security incident occurs, it is easier to trace the actions back to a specific user, which is important for compliance and forensic investigations.

MFA reduces the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches, which are critical concerns for compliance.

What 2FA for VPN options are available out of the box with Windows?

Windows doesn’t offer any built-in options with regards to 2FA for VPN connections.

What MFA capabilities can you add with a third party solution?

Third-party MFA solutions can significantly enhance the security and functionality of VPN connections. Here are some features you may want to look out for if in the market for a third-party MFA solution:

Additional authentication methods:
Push notifications: A notification sent to a mobile app that the user must approve.
Biometric authentication: Fingerprint, facial recognition, or other biometric methods.
RADIUS authentication: If your VPN solution supports RADIUS authentication (which most do), then you can add a 3rd party MFA solution that integrates with RADIUS.
User-friendly interfaces:
Seamless integration: Smooth integration with existing VPN infrastructure to minimize disruption.
User self-service: Features that allow users to manage their MFA settings, such as resetting their authentication methods or managing trusted devices.
Compliance and reporting:
Audit logs: Detailed logs of authentication attempts, including successful and failed attempts.
Compliance reporting: Tools to generate reports that help meet regulatory requirements.
Scalability and management:
Centralized management: A single dashboard to manage MFA policies and settings for all users.
Group policies: The ability to apply different MFA policies to different groups of users.

MFA solutions can significantly enhance the security and functionality of VPN connections.

FAQ

Why should my organization enable MFA for VPN connections?

MFA helps protect against unauthorized access by requiring a second factor of verification. This significantly reduces the risk of data breaches, financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities, even if a password is compromised.

What are the main risks that MFA can help mitigate for VPNs?

MFA reduces the risk of brute-force attacks, phishing attacks, credential stuffing, man-in-the-middle attacks, and insider threats by requiring additional verification methods beyond just a password.

How does MFA work for end users when connecting to a VPN?

When a user attempts to connect to a VPN, they enter their username and password. They are then prompted for a second form of verification, for example a push notification sent to the user mobile device and a biometric check.

Can MFA help with regulatory compliance?

Yes, MFA can help organizations comply with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS, which often require or recommend strong authentication methods. It also aids in audit readiness and risk management.

Are there any downsides to implementing 2FA or MFA for VPNs?

While MFA adds an extra step for users, the security benefits far outweigh any minor inconvenience. It significantly enhances the security of remote connections and protects against unauthorized access.

Looking for a third-party MFA tool to secure your VPN connections?

Discover how Specops Secure Access can improve your security strategy. Our advanced third-party MFA solution can provide effective protection and flexibility for your organization.

Learn more about Specops Secure Access