Implementing MFA in your SaaS application is a critical step toward safeguarding user accounts and building trust. In this article, I will share 3 popular ways to implement MFA in SaaS Applications
Implementing MFA in your SaaS application is a critical step toward safeguarding user accounts and building trust. In this article, I will share 3 popular ways to implement MFA in SaaS Applications
In today’s cybersecurity landscape, multi-factor authentication (MFA) is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. For SaaS applications, MFA adds an extra layer of security, protecting user accounts from breaches, phishing, and unauthorized access. While passwords remain vulnerable, MFA ensures that even if credentials are compromised, attackers can’t infiltrate accounts without a second verification step.
In this guide, we’ll explore three practical ways to implement MFA in your SaaS application, complete with technical insights, pros and cons, and actionable steps. Let’s dive in!
97% of breaches could be prevented with MFA (Microsoft).
54% of users prefer apps offering MFA (Okta).
Regulatory Compliance: GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS increasingly mandate MFA.
After entering their password, users receive a one-time code (OTP) via email. They must enter this code to complete the login.
Generate a Time-Sensitive Code: Use a cryptographically secure library to create a 6-8 digit OTP.
Send the Code via Email: Integrate an email service (e.g., SendGrid, Mailgun).
Validate the Code: Verify the user-inputted code against the generated one.
Pros:
Easy to implement.
No additional user setup required.
Cons:
Less secure if the user’s email is compromised.
Delivery delays may frustrate users.
Users receive an OTP via SMS to their registered phone number. This method leverages the ubiquity of mobile devices.
Integrate Twilio API: Use Twilio’s SMS service to send OTPs.
Generate and Validate Codes: Similar to email-based MFA.
Pros:
High user familiarity.
Works without internet (cellular network only).
Cons:
SMS fees can add up at scale.
Vulnerable to SIM-swapping attacks.
Users link their account to an authenticator app (e.g., Google Authenticator) that generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTP).
Generate a Shared Secret: Create a unique key for each user.
Display a QR Code: Let users scan it with their authenticator app.
Validate TOTP Codes: Verify codes using the shared secret.
Pros:
Offline functionality.
More secure than SMS/email.
Cons:
Requires user setup (scanning QR code).
Risk of losing access if the device is lost.
Offer Backup Codes: Let users generate one-time codes for recovery.
Enable Step-Up Authentication: Trigger MFA only for sensitive actions (e.g., payment changes).
Monitor & Log MFA Attempts: Detect brute-force attacks or anomalies.
Educate Users: Explain MFA benefits during onboarding.
Implementing MFA in your SaaS application is a critical step toward safeguarding user accounts and building trust. Whether you choose email, SMS, authenticator apps, each method offers unique trade-offs between security and usability. For most SaaS providers, starting with SMS or email MFA and later adding authenticator app support strikes a balance between accessibility and protection.
By prioritizing MFA, you’re not just securing your application—you’re future-proofing it against evolving cyber threats.
Brick - SaaS Starter Kit comes with in-build authentication with MFA using all these 3 methods to save weeks of your time..
Q: Can I combine multiple MFA methods?
A: Yes! Use adaptive MFA to apply stricter methods based on risk (e.g., SMS for login + authenticator app for payments).
Q: Is SMS MFA secure enough?
A: It’s better than no MFA, but prioritize authenticator apps or WebAuthn for high-risk applications.
Q: How do I handle users without phones?
A: Provide backup options like email or security questions.
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