Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

 
 

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), also known as Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Two-Step Verification (2SV), is a security mechanism used to enhance the protection of online accounts and systems by requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification before they can access their accounts or perform certain actions. The goal of MFA is to add an extra layer of security beyond just a password, as passwords alone can be vulnerable to various attacks like phishing, brute-force, and credential stuffing.

MFA typically involves three categories of factors:

  • Something you know: This is usually a password or a PIN that only the user should know. It's the traditional way of authentication but is considered the weakest factor on its own due to the potential for password breaches.

  • Something you have: This involves possessing a physical device or token, such as a smartphone, hardware security key, or smart card. These devices generate time-sensitive codes or respond to authentication requests to verify your identity.

  • Something you are: This factor relies on biometric information unique to the user, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans. Biometric factors are harder to replicate but can have limitations related to privacy and accuracy.

MFA combines two or more of these factors to create a layered approach to security. For example, a common MFA implementation might involve the following steps:

  • Username and Password: The user enters their username and password as usual.

  • Second Factor: After successfully entering the password, the system prompts the user to provide a second form of verification. This could be a one-time code generated by an authentication app on their smartphone, received via SMS, or produced by a hardware token.

  • Access Granted: Once the system verifies both the password and the second factor, the user is granted access to their account or the requested action is permitted.

By requiring multiple forms of verification, MFA greatly reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access to accounts, even if someone manages to obtain or guess the password. It adds an additional layer of protection against various cyber threats and significantly enhances the overall security posture of online services and systems.

What Multi-Factor is Not

Security questions are not multi-factor authentication. They decrease security and make accessing websites harder.

Created with the help of ChatGPT