Classification:
compliance
The root account is the most privileged user in an AWS account. MFA (multi-factor authentication) adds an extra layer of protection on top of a user name and password. With MFA enabled, when a user signs in to an AWS website, they are prompted for their user name and password and an authentication code from their AWS MFA device.
Note: When virtual MFA is used for root accounts, it should not be enabled on a personal device, but rather enable a dedicated and not personally owned mobile device (tablet or phone)(“non-personal virtual MFA”). This lessens the risks of losing access to the MFA due to device loss, device trade-in, or if the individual owning the device is no longer employed at the company.
Enabling MFA provides increased security for console access as it requires the authenticating principal to possess a device that emits a time-sensitive key and has knowledge of a credential.
See the CIS AWS Foundations Benchmark controls docs for console remediation steps.
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4.5 Use Multifactor Authentication For All Administrative Access - Use multi-factor authentication and encrypted channels for all administrative account access.