MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) is a security measure that significantly enhances account security by making it harder for unauthorised individuals to gain access to online accounts even if they have stolen a user’s password.
MFA stands for Multi-Factor Authentication. While MFA is the general term, some services may use other names like "Two-Factor Authentication" (2FA) or "Two-Step Verification".
It's a security measure that requires users to provide multiple verification factors to access an account or application, going beyond just a password. This significantly enhances security by making it harder for unauthorized individuals to gain access.
What it is:
MFA adds an extra layer of security to the login process, requiring users to prove their identity using two or more different verification methods.
Why it's important:
By combining different verification factors, MFA makes it much more difficult for hackers to compromise an account, even if they have stolen a user's password.
Examples of verification factors:
Something you know: A password, PIN, or answer to a security question.
Something you have: A physical security key, a smartphone with an authenticator app, or a code sent via SMS.
Something you are: Biometric data like a fingerprint or facial recognition.
How it works:
When a user attempts to log in, they'll be prompted to provide the standard credentials (e.g., username and password), and then they'll need to provide an additional verification factor (e.g. approving the online account login from a smartphone) .
In essence, MFA is a critical security measure that helps protect all online accounts and sensitive information from unauthorised access. All users are advised to implement this minimum online account security as a matter of urgency.
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