Multi-factor authentication is a process in which the user is asked to provide two or more identifications. It adds one more layer of security to the system. If a person has a password to log in, then it would be better to add a fingerprint or a code to access the account. This authentication process makes it difficult to get access to someone’s premises. There is a two-factor or a strong authentication as well which means there are only two ways for identification along with the password or PIN.
Besides, this method keeps the accounts safe because it requires not just one but two or more identifications to reach the account. It is easy to steal a password but if there are more identifications then it would be a bit difficult for the scammer to steal other things too.
How Does it Work?
This process works to maintain and protect someone’s data in accounts and other systems. It assures that there should be something additional that can protect the account. For this purpose, MFA needs three things that make it harder for anyone to pretend that is you.
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Something You Know
MFA ensures that there must be something that is only known by you. It can be a password or a PIN. A password or PIN can be easily stolen so MFA needs something more to protect the accounts.
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Something You Have
It is something you possess physically. It can be a small device, and a code is sent to your device via text message. This can protect the account in a better way because the device will only be possessed by you and no one can get access to it without your consent.
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Something You Are
It is a common method of verification that requires capturing a part of your body. It is more authentic because nobody can copy someone’s unique characteristics. It involves fingerprint, iris, retina scan, face recognition, and many more.
Types of MFA
There are five types of multi-factor authentication. These identification methods are created to promote extra safety for the accounts that need to be protected. Here are the main types of MFA that need to be understood:
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One-Time Password (Time-based)
MFA includes time-based one-time passwords which are temporary codes that will vanish in a few seconds. Whenever a person tries to log in to the account, this code will be generated. This temporary code never repeats and every time it appears to be new. It is beneficial for a short period.
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Email and Text Message Verification
In this method, when a person tries to log in to the account, a code is received via an email or a text message. The account can accessed by entering the given code but this method is less safe because the email and the phone can be effortlessly hacked.
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Authentication Apps
These apps also generate a one-time password. But there are proper apps like Google authenticator which have to be there in a mobile phone to get the code while logging in to the account. It is beneficial in a way that the app can be accessed without the internet.
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Biometric Authentications
This method includes several identifications such as fingerprint scan, iris and retina scan, face authentication, and many more. These are considered comparatively safe and protective methods of authentication because it is difficult to copy the unique traits of any person.
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Hardware Tokens
These tiny hardware tokens display a code when someone tries to log in to the account. It gives a new code every time so that if an anonymous person tries to log in then the previous code will be of no use to him. It is the best way of authentication because the device will only be possessed by you and no own can get it without your consent.
Benefits of Using MFA
There are several advantages to using this authentication method. It is a satisfactory way of securing personal accounts. It boosts accounts’ security and ensures that any illegitimate person should not get access to anyone’s account.
Moreover, this authentication has reduced identity theft. If a scammer tries to impersonate you by using your password or PIN probably for financial gain, it will be difficult to steal information other than the password.
Furthermore, numerous businesses rely on this authentication method because of its reliability. It has gained the trust of many enterprises and is now being used worldwide.
Conclusion
Passwordless authentications are usually more effective than others. Likewise, MFA is an identification method that strengthens security measures in today’s digital era, where people are relying on online lifestyles. They shop online, save online, work online, and so on. In this regard, cybersecurity is continuously trying to make advancements to satisfy customers. MFA has been the most effective and widely used method of authentication that can effectively protect private stuff.