ESET announced the availability of ESET Secure Authentication, a two-factor authentication (2FA) software solution for SMBs that makes use of remote end-users' mobile devices to deliver a one-time password (OTP) when they connect to company networks, providing added security to the network and the device.

"Criminal hacking is increasingly sophisticated and organized, and it is constantly growing in both scale and scope. What many smaller businesses don't realize is that they are an appealing target to cyber criminals—a tempting combination of opportunity, access, and potential return," said Stephen Cobb , security researcher, ESET North America.

When customer information is on the line, passwords alone are not enough. A host of regulations compel businesses of every size to protect that information or face legal action which may include penalties, commerce restrictions and substantial fines.

Examples of U.S. regulations that specifically require two-factor authentication include: PCI DSS, HIPAA, NIST, FFIEC, GLBA and SOX. The list is long and growing, and underscores the importance that multi-factor authentication holds in the protection of customer information and key business data.

ESET Secure Authentication offers email protection for Outlook Web Access/App (OWA) and connectivity protection for VPN customers who use RADIUS, the ubiquitous Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service networking protocol.