Understanding Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, is a cybersecurity measure that requires anyone logging into an account to navigate a two-step process to prove their identity. It makes it twice as hard for criminals to access an online account. When multi-factor authentication is available, always turn it on because it’s easy to do and greatly increases your cybersecurity.
 

How does Multi-Factor Authentication work?

By adding one more simple step when logging into an account, multi-factor authentication greatly increases the security of your personal or business accounts. Here’s how it works. Just like logging into your account, the first step is giving your password or passphrase. The second step is to provide an extra way of proving that you’re you, like entering a PIN code or texting/emailing a code to your mobile device, or accessing an authenticator app.