The recent widespread Verizon outage (read more about the outage here) was a powerful reminder of just how dependent we’ve become on our mobile devices - not just for communication, but for security. For many individuals and businesses, losing access to a mobile number didn’t just mean missed calls or texts; it meant being locked out of critical systems protected by multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Here at Networks Plus, we believe outages are learning opportunities – regardless of where they originated. Here are a few important MFA considerations we feel every organization should review when mobile access isn’t guaranteed.

1. SMS-Based MFA Has a Single Point of Failure

Text-message MFA is convenient, but it relies entirely on cellular availability. When a carrier outage occurs, users may be unable to receive their one-time passcodes which could result in the halting of access to email, VPNs, financial platforms, and other internal systems.

2. Backup Authentication Methods Are Essential

Every MFA strategy should include alternatives. App-based authenticators (like Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator), hardware security keys, or backup codes can provide access even when cellular service is down or unreliable.

3. Administrative Lockouts Can Become Business Disruptions

If key personnel, such as IT administrators, finance leaders, or executives can’t authenticate, business operations can stall. Ensuring privileged accounts have redundant MFA options is critical for continuity.

4. Test Your “What If” Scenario

Many organizations don’t realize their MFA weakness until it’s too late. Proactive planning can reveal gaps before an outage exposes them.

Bottom Line

Security shouldn’t disappear when cell service does. A resilient MFA strategy balances strong protection with real-world reliability. Networks Plus can help you assess your current setup and ensure your access controls are built to withstand outages - not crumble under them.

Contact us at consulting@networksplus.com today to schedule your personalized one-on-one consultation.