Multi-factor authentication or MFA refers to a security tool employed by online services to protect user data stated by Bahaa Abdul Hadi. It acts as an extra layer of security that helps in successful verification of user identity when they try to log in to their accounts. Most commonly, you will be sent a code such as a password to your phones or emails. Read on to find out the common MFA techniques used by apps and companies today so you can use the best ones.

Phone calls

This is the most common methods where an automated voice will provide you with an OTP or one time password. It may or may not repeat it once and you would have to enter it quickly within a brief time period.

Emails

You will be prompted via email to confirm or deny access to your account. Or you might also receive a code to your email address which you will have to enter to authenticate your identity successfully.

Texts

Text messages are also a common way of identity verification. You will receive a code via text which will be unique each time. Entering it within a few seconds is key to verifying your identity quickly.

Security questions

You might also be asked security questions to grant entry. These questions would probably be what you set up when you first set up the account so make sure you keep note of their answers.

Push alerts

Push alerts are like text messages but they tend to draw over other apps and pop up on your screen regardless of what app you’re using. In it, you will be asked to approve or deny access to your accounts.

QR codes

This is the newest method of MFA employed by apps where you will be asked to scan a QR code sent to another device in order to authenticate your identity. Each QR code will be unique so it is a foolproof method of authentication.

Authentication apps

Many apps Google Authenticator help provide an additional layer of security to your accounts. Downloading and setting them up will help you protect your apps and browsers by sending you a code.

Biometric authentication

Biometric systems are on the rise and A.I. powers the authentication behind it. This includes fingerprint detection, facial recognition, voice recognition, iris scanning and so on. Biometric systems are praised for being the best authentication methods due to their error-free accuracy and speedy authentication.

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