Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security method that requires users to provide two or more verification factors to access a system, application, or account. Instead of relying on just a password, MFA combines multiple layers of authentication to strengthen security. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if one factor (like a password) is compromised.

How it works

MFA is based on combining factors from different categories:

• Something you know – passwords, PINs, security questions
• Something you have – smartphones, hardware tokens, smart cards
• Something you are – biometrics such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or voice ID
• Somewhere you are – geolocation-based verification (e.g., access allowed only from certain IPs or regions)

Why it matters

Passwords alone are highly vulnerable to attacks like phishing, brute force, and credential stuffing. MFA adds extra barriers, making it much harder for attackers to break into accounts. According to Microsoft, MFA can block over 99% of automated attacks. For businesses, this means greater protection of sensitive data, compliance with regulations, and reduced risk of costly breaches.

Examples in practice

• Logging into an online bank account with a password and an SMS confirmation code
• Using a company VPN with both a password and an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator
• Unlocking a phone with a PIN and facial recognition
• Accessing cloud services with hardware keys such as YubiKey or Titan Security Key

Best practices

• Enforce MFA on all critical accounts, including admin, finance, and email
• Prefer authenticator apps or hardware keys over SMS codes, which are more vulnerable to SIM-swapping attacks
• Educate employees and customers on why MFA is essential and how to use it properly