In the digital age, with millions of users hosting bank account data, information and passwords on the web, the 2 factor authentication plays a fundamental role. Why? Because it is important to have security mechanisms that keep people or software that might want to get hold of that data away.
Whether in the case of hacking or a simple theft of a cell phone in public, It is crucial to have a computer security system that protects the data. Especially if we consider that on many occasions the information is more important than the physical device. To achieve the maximum security and at the same time it does not become cumbersome for the user, today there is a term that may be familiar to you: two-step authentication, also called 2 factor authentication (Its acronym is 2FA).
What is 2 factor authentication?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security method that requires two different forms of verification before allowing access to an account or system. These two forms are typically something the user knows (such as a password) and something the user possesses (such as a cell phone).
The purpose of two-factor authentication is to add an extra layer of security beyond simply entering a password. This makes it harder for criminals to access an account even if they have the password, as they would also need the second authentication factor.
Authentication factors can be classified into three categories:
- Something you know: This is usually a password or PIN code.
- Something you have: This can be a mobile device, a physical security card, or a code-generating token.
- Something you are: This refers to biometric authentication, such as fingerprints, retina scanning, or facial recognition. It also includes voice biometrics, a technology we were world pioneers.
Combining two of these factors significantly increases security compared to relying on a password alone. Many online services, such as email accounts, banking services, and social media, offer two-factor authentication options to better protect user information from unauthorized access.
What types of two-step authentication currently exist?
There are several Two-step verification methods (2FA)) that are commonly used to improve account security. Some of the most common methods are:
- SMS Verification Codes (Text Message): After entering the password, a verification code is sent via text message to the phone number associated with the account. The user must enter this code to complete the login process.
- Verification by WhatsApp: WhatsApp Business allows you to send a verification code using a category template "Authentication".
- Authentication Applications: Apps like Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator generate time-based codes that change constantly. The user scans a QR code provided by the service and then enters the code generated by the app.
- Verification Email: After entering the password, an email containing a verification link or code is sent to the email associated with the account. The user must click the link or enter the code to complete the login process.
- Physical Security Keys: USB devices or smart cards that plug into the user's device. They are used to confirm the user's identity by tapping or inserting the key into the device.
- Biometrics: Authentication based on unique physical characteristics of the user, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or retina scans. Another option is authentication by voice biometrics, a technology in which we are pioneers.
- Backup Codes: Backup codes are provided to the user during 2FA setup. These codes can be used in place of the second primary factor in case the user does not have access to their primary authentication device.
It is important to choose the method of 2 factor authentication that best suits your needs and preferences. Some services allow multiple 2FA methods to be set up to offer flexibility and additional security options, but It must be taken into account that it does not become cumbersome for the user.
In other words, the best security system is not only one that prevents external attacks, but also one that is convenient for the user and does not hinder basic operations.
What threats can the two-step authentication process prevent?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security measure computer security which helps prevent or mitigate various threats related to unauthorized access to accounts and systems. Some of the threats that the two-step authentication process can help prevent include:
- Unauthorized access due to password theft: Let's say an attacker gets hold of your bank password. In that case, they would need the second factor (such as a code generated by an authentication app) to access the account. This makes it harder for someone who only has the password information to gain access.
- Phishing: Two-factor authentication can be effective against phishing attacks, as attackers would need more than just the password to access the account. Even if a user falls for a phishing trap and provides their password, the second factor is still required for authentication.
- Brute force attacks: Brute force attacks attempt to guess your password by trying multiple combinations until they hit the correct one. Two-factor authentication adds another layer of protection, since even if an attacker guesses your password, they would still need the second factor.
- Unauthorized access through lost or stolen devices: In the case of device-based two-factor authentication (such as authenticator apps or physical security keys), account access is more difficult even if a device is lost or stolen. The thief would need both the device and the password to gain access.
- Compromise of credentials in databases: If a database that stores passwords is compromised, two-step authentication provides a additional layer of securityEven if an attacker obtains the stored passwords, they would still need the second factor to authenticate.
- Identity theft: he 2 factor authentication makes identity theft difficult, as an attacker would have to overcome multiple layers of security to access the account.
As we see, the 2 factor authentication is a tool that assists users in a fundamental need: their security. Learn about the other ways we take care of the user at Simpletech!
