What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, as it is also called, goes beyond passwords with additional security measures to authenticate users. MFA requires users to provide additional evidence to prove you are who you say you are, before you can access an account, application, or network. So, if a hacker steals your password, MFA’s multi-layered defense will help to keep them at bay.
How Does MFA Work?
MFA combines different categories of authentication factors to verify your identity. There are several ways to implement MFA, each with its own benefits and security levels:
- Something you know: This is the most common factor and includes private information only you should know, like a password, a PIN, or the answer to a secret question.
- Something you have: This factor is a physical item in your possession. Examples include a mobile phone receiving a one-time code via text message, a dedicated authenticator app, or a physical security key. Authenticator Apps like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator generate a temporary, time-based code on your device. Security keys are physical devices that plug into your computer or connect wirelessly. They use cryptographic keys for authentication and are considered one of the most secure forms of MFA.
- Something you are: This involves using your unique biological traits for verification, such as a fingerprint scan, facial recognition, or an iris scan. It's fast and convenient, and your biometric data is stored securely on your device, not on a remote server.
A typical MFA setup might ask you for your password (something you know) and then send a temporary code to your phone (something you have).
What is MFA Important?
While a strong, unique password is a good starting point, passwords are still vulnerable to threats like phishing, brute-force attacks, and data breaches that compromise credentials.
MFA drastically reduces the risk of account compromise and offers an additional level of protection. If an attacker obtains your password through one of these methods and you have MFA enabled, they still can't get into your account. To get past MFA, they would also need to possess your second factor, such as your phone or a physical security key, which is highly unlikely. This extra protection offers a powerful defense against identity theft and unauthorized access.
