Authentication factors are multiple authentication methods that can be used to verify a person’s identity. The bulk of Two-factor Authentication (2FA) methods focus on the first three authentication elements, and most authentication methods rely on knowledge, possession, inherence, or location. Two-factor authentication or 2FA, is a type of multi-factor authentication that uses two separate credentials for more secure authentication.
Two-factor authentication, also known as two-step verification or dual-factor authentication, is a security method in which users verify their identity using two independent authentication factors. This provides a higher level of security than single-factor authentication (SFA), which requires the user to supply only one factor, which is commonly a password or passcode. The 2FA s requires a user to provide a password as the first factor, as well as a second factor, which is typically a security token or a biometric factor such as a fingerprint or facial scan. This security precaution is in place to secure the user’s credentials as well as the resources that the user has access to.
The goal of 2FA is to add an extra layer of security to the authentication process by making it more difficult for fraudsters to gain access to a person’s devices or online accounts. This is because even if a victim’s password is hacked, the password alone is insufficient to pass the authentication check. Access to sensitive systems and data has long been restricted using this method. Because most online users reuse passwords across multiple accounts and sites, fraudsters can use known email addresses/passwords to access dozens of sites and see which ones grant them access. As a result, online service providers are increasingly using two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect their users’ credentials from being used by fraudsters because it goes beyond just a username and password.
What is 2FA and how does it work?
The process for enabling this differs based on the application or website. The procedure, on the other hand, entails a general multistep procedure, such as:
• A prompt to log into the application or website using a username and password
*For websites that do not require passwords, it generates a unique security key for the user
• The site’s server validates it
• A prompt to begin the second log in steps
• User may be required to enter a one-time code generated
• Authentication takes place and access is granted
Conclusion
It will take a little longer to log in each time on a new device if you use 2FA, but this measure is in place to protect your identity, data, and money. Fraudsters are increasingly looking for ways to gain access to their victims’ personal information and failing to enable 2FA on applications and websites that require it puts your information at risk, as well as information about persons associated with you.
Written by: Oreoluwa Adegoke, CFE