Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a digital security tool designed to increase the protection of online accounts and private data by requiring multiple forms of verification before users are granted access to their accounts. Single-factor methods that rely solely on a password, are not enough to keep private data secure.

Two examples of multifactor authentication are when you use your debit card to make a purchase and must enter your PIN number as verification or when you log into a website and a code is sent to your phone or email that you must provide when logging in to your account. Having that additional layer of protection keeps your accounts secure. Even if a hacker is able to steal your password it is unlikely they can provide the second component needed to authenticate.

There are several ways to authenticate, they include.

Something you know which can include passwords and PIN’s that only the user knows.

Something you have such as a smartphone, security token, USB drive, or a smart card.

Something you are, a characteristic unique to you, such as your fingerprint, facial recognition, voice verification or retinal scan.

Some companies, apps and websites require multi-factor authentication, others offer it as an option. When given the choice always opt in. Some people choose not to because they feel it is inconvenient but once setup it takes very little time to authenticate and offers much more protection than just a password. Identity theft is at an all-time high and you want to do everything you can to protect your accounts.