Two-factor authentication (2FA)

Today is Two-Factor Authentication Day, a reminder that a strong password alone is insufficient to secure our accounts.

Two-factor authentication is a security measure that provides an extra layer of protection to your accounts. Along with your password, a second factor is required, such as a generated code via a mobile application, an SMS message, a fingerprint, or something similar. This added layer of security makes it challenging for anyone to hack into your account, even if they know your password. The combination of what you know (your password) and what you have (your mobile device, biometrics) makes your account more secure.

There are various types of two-factor authentication methods, each with its own benefits:

• SMS codes: In this method, authentication codes are sent to the user's registered mobile device via SMS.
• Biometrics: This method involves authentication via fingerprint, facial recognition, or corneal scans of the eye.
• Authentication apps: Mobile apps can be used to generate time-limited codes, such as Google Authenticator or Authy.
• Tokens: If you are using physical or software tokens, it is important to keep them secure. Physical tokens should be closely guarded, while a software token on a mobile device should be protected by an additional code or biometrics.

Multifactor authentication (MFA) is a security process that uses three or more independent identification methods. The main aim of this approach is to enhance authentication security by adding more layers of protection. MFA uses a combination of factors from the three main categories: something you know, something you are, and something you own.

By merging these factors, MFA provides an additional layer of security because it becomes incredibly challenging for unauthorized persons to overcome all identification barriers.