Current:Home > ScamsQschaincoin: What Is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)? How It Works and Example -Nova Finance Academy
Qschaincoin: What Is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)? How It Works and Example
View
Date:2025-04-17 04:28:00
What Is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security system that requires two distinct forms of identification in order to access something.
Two-factor authentication can be used to strengthen the security of an online account, a smartphone, or even a door. 2FA does this by requiring two types of information from the user—a password or personal identification number (PIN), a code sent to the user's smartphone (called a message authentication code), or a fingerprint—before whatever is being secured can be accessed.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security system that requires two separate, distinct forms of identification in order to access something.
The first factor is a password and the second commonly includes a text with a code sent to your smartphone, or biometrics using your fingerprint, face, or retina.
While 2FA does improve security, it is not foolproof.
Understanding Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication is designed to prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to an account with nothing more than a stolen password. Users may be at greater risk of compromised passwords than they realize, particularly if they use the same password on more than one website. Downloading software and clicking on links in emails can also expose an individual to password theft.12
Two-factor authentication is a combination of two of the following:2
Something you know (your password)
Something you have (such as a text with a code sent to your smartphone or other device, or a smartphone authenticator app)
Something you are (biometrics using your fingerprint, face, or retina)
2FA is not just applied to online contexts. It is also at work when a consumer is required to enter their zip code before using their credit card at a gas pump or when a user is required to enter an authentication code from an RSA SecurID key fob to log in remotely to an employer’s system.2
Examples of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Apple account holders can use 2FA to ensure that accounts can only be accessed from trusted devices. If a user tries to log in to their iCloud account from a different computer, the user will need the password, but also a multi-digit code that Apple will send to one of the u
Many businesses also deploy 2FA to control access to company networks and data. Employees may be required to enter an additional code to sign into the remote desktop software that allows them to connect to their work computers from outside the office.
Special Considerations
While 2FA does improve security, it is not foolproof. Two-factor authentication goes a step further in verifying identity from the user simply entering a PIN or CVV number from their credit card.
However, hackers who acquire the authentication factors can still gain unauthorized access to accounts. Common ways to do so include phishing attacks, account recovery procedures, and malware.
Hackers can also intercept text messages used in 2FA. Critics argue that text messages are not a true form of 2FA since they are not something the user already has but rather something the user is sent, and the sending process is vulnerable. Instead, the critics argue that this process should be called two-step verification. Some companies, such as Google, use this term.3
Still, even two-step verification is more secure than password protection alone. Even stronger is multi-factor authentication, which requires more than two factors before account access will be granted.4
veryGood! (69372)
Related
- Finally, good retirement news! Southwest pilots' plan is a bright spot, experts say
- Lightning strike kills Colorado cattle rancher, 34 of his herd; wife, father-in-law survive
- The Best Squat-Proof Bike Shorts for Working Out, Wearing Under Dresses & More
- Chicago police fatally shoot stabbing suspect and wound the person he was trying to stab
- Juan Soto to be introduced by Mets at Citi Field after striking record $765 million, 15
- American arrested in Turks and Caicos over 9 mm ammo found in bag sentenced to time served and $9,000 fine
- Mayorkas says some migrants try to game the U.S. asylum system
- Black Hills highway closure to upend summer holiday traffic
- The 401(k) millionaires club keeps growing. We'll tell you how to join.
- Burger King week of deals begins Tuesday: Get discounts on burgers, chicken, more menu items
Ranking
- Federal court filings allege official committed perjury in lawsuit tied to Louisiana grain terminal
- University of Florida employee, students implicated in illegal plot to ship drugs, toxins to China
- Appeals court orders new trial for man convicted of killing star Minneapolis student athlete
- See Millie Bobby Brown and Husband Jake Bongiovi Show Off Their Wedding Rings
- 'Most Whopper
- Vest Tops Are Everywhere Right Now, Shop the Trend
- Storm-weary Texas battered again as powerful storm, strong winds kill 1, cause widespread damage
- National Park Service denies ordering removal of American flag at Denali National Park
Recommendation
IRS recovers $4.7 billion in back taxes and braces for cuts with Trump and GOP in power
Albert Ruddy, Oscar-winning producer of The Godfather, dies at 94
Who is getting part of Melinda French Gates’ $1 billion initiative to support women and girls
Turbulence hits Qatar Airways flight to Dublin, injuring 12 people
Sarah J. Maas books explained: How to read 'ACOTAR,' 'Throne of Glass' in order.
A look at Pope Francis’ comments about LGBTQ+ people
Son of Sam serial killer David Berkowitz denied parole after 12th board appearance
Judge keeps punishment of 30 years at resentencing for man who attacked Paul Pelosi