Add a Second Lock: Why MFA Is a Must for Content Creators

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What Is MFA?

And Why is it Essential for Content Creators?

You’ve got strong, unique passwords, great! But what if someone still manages to get hold of one?
That’s where Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) steps in to save the day.

Also known as Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Two-Step Verification (2SV), this simple layer of protection can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a full-blown disaster.

Why a strong password alone isn't enough

In you followed our advice here on creating strong password, you should be completely secure, right?

Unfortunately, strong passwords are only a small part of the puzzle.

Even the strongest of passwords can be obtained if

  • The company did not securely store a copy of your password
  • A device storing your password was hacked

 

If a hacker tries to log in with the correct password, they will be prevented by MFA. In many cases, the system will email you afterwards to notify you of a suspicious log in attempt and recommend you change your password.

Why It Matters to all Creators

You might think, “I’m not a big influencer, why would anyone target me?”

  • Some cyber criminals don’t discriminate and they use automated bots scan all accounts for weaknesses.
  • You are likely to have a bigger digital footprint than the average person, increasing the scope of accounts for cyber criminals to target.
  • Reputational damage through blackmail is a common approach, however for content creators, it is likely to also have a greater impact, both socially and financially.

  • Deleted content or entire accounts is often irreversible, potentially erasing years of work building your brand.

  • Loss of access to monetised platforms (Patreon, Ko-fi, Twitch, etc.)

How to Set It Up Multi Factor Authentication

Types of MFA

  • SMS

    Most common, but least secure.

  • Authenticator App

    App on smartphone.

  • FIDO Key

    Physical fob / key, popular at enterprise level businesses.

How It Works (Quick Example)

The easiest and most secure way is to use a dedicated authenticator app:

Recommended apps:

  • Authy (great for backups and multiple devices)

  • Google Authenticator

  • Microsoft Authenticator

  • 1Password (if you already use it as your password manager)

These apps generate time-based one-time passcodes (TOTP) that change every 30 seconds.

Avoid relying only on SMS codes—they can be intercepted via SIM swapping.

Where to Use It First

Start with your most important accounts, then work your way through the rest gradually.

Ultimately, you should eventually turn on MFA for all accounts that support it.

  • Critical

    • Your main email address

    • Apple ID / Google account

    • Social media: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter/X

    • PayPal, Stripe, or any financial platform

    • Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox)

  • Creator Platforms

    • Patreon / Ko-fi / Buy Me a Coffee

    • Twitch / YouTube / Discord

    • Portfolio sites, gallery hosting, and client delivery tools

  • Misc
    • Any account where you make payments (Shopping, Utilities, Travel, Subscriptions)
    • Any account with personal information (Health, Work, Pensions)

Don’t Skip These Extra Tips

Enable MFA on your backup email address too
Print or save your MFA backup codes somewhere safe
Use an MFA app with cloud backup in case you lose your phone
Consider a physical FIDO key if you're a high-profile or high-risk user

Real Talk: This Step Saves Accounts

Even if someone guesses or steals your password, they’ll be blocked at the second step. You’ll likely get a security alert—giving you the chance to act before any damage is done.

No protection is 100% perfect, but MFA is one of the most effective and underused defences you can activate in under 5 minutes.

TL;DR Your MFA Action Plan

Start with your email
Use an authenticator app, not just SMS
Enable MFA on all your major platforms
Keep your backup codes in a secure place
Consider using a password manager that supports MFA