Telecom
What You Need to Know About Multifactor Authentication Fatigue Attacks and How they can be Prevented
Multifactor authentication is a security measure that requires users to provide a second form of verification before they can log into a corporate network. It has long been considered essential for keeping fraudsters out. However, cybercriminals have been discovering increasingly clever ways to bypass it.
During an attack on Uber’s IT systems in 2022, the hackers did not use any sophisticated tactics to gain access. Instead, they bombarded an employee with repeated login requests until, out of sheer frustration, the employee approved one.
This type of cyberattack is known as an “MFA fatigue attack” and poses a real risk to organisations, says Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy and Evangelist at KnowBe4 AFRICA, a cybersecurity training designer.
“MFA fatigue attacks, also known as prompt spamming or authentication bombing, exploit human vulnerability, rather than relying on high-tech hacking methods,” she explains. “These attacks involve sending continuous push notifications to a target who has already provided their username and password, aiming to irritate or confuse them into unwittingly granting the attacker access to their account or system.”
With Uber, the attacker likely bought the contractor’s Uber corporate username and password on the dark web. The attacker then made repeated attempts to log into the victim’s Uber account. Each time, the victim received a request to approve a two-factor login, which blocked access at first. However, eventually, and after the attacker contacted the contractor on WhatsApp claiming they were from Uber IT and that the only way to get rid of the never ending notifications was to accept one, the contractor accepted one request, allowing the attacker to successfully log in.
Previously, cybersecurity experts believed that Multifactor Authentication (MFA) was a foolproof method to protect corporate IT systems from hackers. “Now we’re seeing attackers finding ways around it by bombarding the victim with scores of MFA requests or by tricking them over the phone,” says Collard. This tactic, similar to a swarm of bees overwhelming someone, is a simple yet effective social engineering technique used by hackers. “By bugging you repeatedly until you give in, malicious actors can manipulate users into approving fraudulent access attempts,” says Collard.
How can you prevent it?
The best way to prevent MFA fatigue attacks in organisations is not to use push notifications. “While MFA provides an extra layer of security, it’s not foolproof,” she asserts. “From a cybersecurity perspective, I would recommend that organisations disable push notifications altogether and rather use alternative verification methods.”
An example of a better verification method is number matching. “This involves matching a unique code provided by the authentication app with the code displayed on the screen during the login process,” explains Collard.
A challenge-response method is another effective way of providing additional security. This method asks a user a specific question to verify their identity or to perform a task in response to a challenge. “A challenge-response method is more difficult for hackers to bypass. It can involve mechanisms like biometric authentication, in which users must scan their fingerprints or irises or use facial recognition to gain access to a network.” However, both of the above are not immune against so-called man in the middle or social engineering attacks tricking the users to hand over their OTP or response to the fraudster.
Another effective verification method is FIDO2, an open authentication standard that allows users to log in without using passwords. “You can implement FIDO2 using hardware security keys,” she explains. Typically, USB sticks store the user’s private key, while the public key is stored on the authentication server. As soon as the user enters their username and password, the system requests them to use the hardware key. “It is more resistant to phishing as it works on a challenge-response protocol and doesn’t rely on a one-time PIN that can be intercepted,” she adds.
Mindfulness is key
As with all hacking attempts, it’s crucial that users remain calm and mindful, rather than reacting emotionally. “Stay tuned into your body’s responses when dealing with potential cybersecurity threats, whether they are phishing emails or MFA fatigue attacks,” says Collard. “If something feels strange, like if the situation is putting you under undue pressure, listen to that cue and don’t respond in a knee-jerk fashion. In this way, you’ll keep a straight head and thwart potential data breaches.”
MTN South Africa, in partnership with Lynk Global, has successfully conducted Africa’s first satellite-to-mobile phone call touted as a groundbreaking development.
This historic trial, conducted in Vryburg, North West province, marks a major step toward bridging connectivity gaps in underserved and rural regions across the continent.
The test involved making a voice call using a standard smartphone connected via a low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite.
This innovative approach eliminates the need for traditional network infrastructure, providing a viable solution for remote areas with limited or no mobile coverage.
According to Charles Molapisi, CEO of MTN South Africa, this initiative aligns with the company’s broader strategy to extend network coverage to hard-to-reach areas.
“This achievement demonstrates our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to ensure connectivity for all, regardless of location,” Molapisi stated.
The trial also assessed SMS capabilities over the LEO satellite connection, proving the technology’s potential for widespread application.
With successful implementation, satellite-to-mobile communication could revolutionise telecommunications in Africa, enabling digital inclusion and economic opportunities in regions previously disconnected from mainstream networks.
This milestone underscores the growing role of satellite technology in Africa’s telecommunications landscape.
By integrating satellite solutions with existing mobile networks, MTN and Lynk Global aim to provide seamless connectivity that overcomes traditional infrastructure challenges.
Samson Aminu, also known as Smile, has described the Smart Treasure Investment Team (ST Team) as a transformative force that has empowered its members and significantly contributed to poverty eradication.
Samson Aminu
Aminu, a VIP 9 member of the team, shared his experiences on Friday during the official car presentation ceremony held at the regional office in Lagos. Having recently received a Lexus RX350 and an international vacation from the team, Aminu recounted how the organization has positively changed his life.
“The Smart Treasure Investment Team has really imparted my life positively and changed my status from zero to hero,” he said.
He revealed that his first earnings through the team allowed him to relocate to a new apartment and acquire gadgets. “I’ve purchased various items for myself and my family, and established an operational center in Ilorin,” he added.
The ST Team, according to Aminu, aligns its activities with the United Nations’ 16 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include youth empowerment, poverty eradication, support for education in rural areas, and community service.
“The ST Team has come to eradicate poverty in Africa and across the globe. We are teaching people how to catch fish by themselves and making them financially stable,” Aminu explained.
He highlighted the organization’s initiatives such as providing allowances to civil servants, feeding the elderly, orphans, and widows, and investing in agriculture to sustain local communities.
“If the ST Team lasts long for another three years, the government would be grateful to this project as it would bring peace and comfort to the society,” Aminu said.
He applauded the leaders of the organization, Dr. Harold and Mentor Tina, for their sincerity, honesty, and dedication to humanity. “I urge the government to support this project, which has brought significant change to Nigeria in just two years,” he said.
Aminu, who has over 15 years of experience in multilevel marketing, commended the team for its exceptional standards and sustainability.
Telecom
15-Year-Old Autistic Artist, Kanye, to Unveil World’s Largest Art Canvas on Autism Awareness Day
Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, affectionately known as Kanye, has become a beacon of inspiration for Nigeria’s youth. The 15-year-old autistic artist is set to unveil what is expected to be the world’s largest art canvas by an individual on April 2, 2025, World Autism Awareness Day, at Eagles Square in Abuja.
Kanye’s journey began at the tender age of two when he first showed a proclivity towards art. Despite facing challenges associated with autism, Kanye has flourished as an artist, earning accolades and the nickname “Young Picasso” for his exceptional abstract paintings.
The young prodigy’s attempt at breaking the Guinness World Record started in November. 2024, as part of the Zeebah Foundation’s ‘Impossibility Is A Myth’ project. This initiative not only showcases Kanye’s extraordinary talent but also aims to raise funds for a state-of-the-art autism resource center in Abuja, highlighting the need for greater support and inclusion for individuals with autism.
Kanye’s story aligns with MTN Nigeria’s recent “Go Make A Difference” (Go M.A.D) campaign, which encourages Nigerians to take bold steps and create positive impacts in their communities. Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasised how Kanye embodies the Go M.A.D philosophy: “MTN’s mission is to connect people all over the world. Kanye is connecting art lovers, and people all over the world as well. He is a true icon, breaking barriers and proving that nothing is impossible”.
The unveiling event will be attended by key dignitaries, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa. This high-profile support underscores the significance of Kanye’s achievement and its potential to inspire change.
Kanye’s father, Tagbo Okeke, stressed that this record attempt goes beyond personal achievement. “We started this awareness campaign to tell parents that no child should be left behind, that they are Fabulous, Autistic and Talented,” he said. The family’s efforts, including opening a gallery in Abuja where art therapy workshops are conducted, demonstrate their commitment to supporting others on the autism spectrum.
As Nigeria’s youth witness Kanye’s remarkable journey, many are inspired to make their own difference, regardless of the challenges they face. Kanye’s story proves that with determination, support, and the right tools – such as those provided by initiatives like MTN’s Go M.A.D campaign – young Nigerians can achieve extraordinary feats and create meaningful change in their communities.
Kanye’s upcoming unveiling of his monumental artwork is not just a personal triumph; it’s a powerful statement about inclusion, perseverance, and the limitless potential of Nigeria’s youth to make a difference.
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