MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) is an advanced method of authentication that requires a user to provide at least two verification details in order to access sensitive resources, for example online accounts or applications. By combining different ‘factors’ such as a password, confirmation code and facial recognition, more security is offered, as more evidence is required to confirm a user’s identity – even if a hacker were to obtain a password, they would still not have enough data to gain access to a system, as they would still require a second or third factor.
Another commonly used verification factor is the one-time password (OTP) – a 4 to 8 digit code often sent via SMS or email.
The primary difference between the three authentication methods is the number of credentials required to log in to an application or access an account. Single sign-on (SSO) allows users to login to several apps or services using a single set of credentials and is designed to improve user experience. It is often used in businesses where staff need to access multiple services in order to do their jobs. MFA, meanwhile, is designed to enhance security for the login process.
2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) is a type of MFA, using precisely two factors for verifying a user, while MFA may require even more factors, depending on the required level of security – for example 2FA may be sufficient to access email accounts, but MFA may be required to access more sensitive information such as financial data.
IBM’s Cost of a data breach report states that credential theft and phishing (often a way to steal credentials) were the top causes of cyber-attack data breaches in 2024, showing us that security of our systems is paramount. Both methods of attack often look to steal passwords, as they are the easiest verification method to crack, and are often used re-used multiple times, allowing hackers to access multiple applications with one password. System corruption, financial theft and identity fraud are all potential outcomes of a stolen password.
The extra factors required for MFA create additional barriers between cyber-attackers and their end goal, helping to prevent access for illegitimate or illicit means.
Meeting requirements and industry standards is one of the key drivers for adopting MFA, with many frameworks considering it a baseline control for protecting access to sensitive information. For example, under GDPR, companies are expected to implement “appropriate technical measures”, with stringent authentication often seen as a practical way to reduce the risk of unauthorised access. In the case of ISO 27001, access control and identity management controls link strongly with the need for MFA. Read more about our own ISO 27001 certification here.
MFA is evolving rapidly, moving from traditional codes and tokens to more intelligent, phishing-resistant authentication technology. Biometrics, such as facial recognition, are becoming more reliable and accessible, whilst passkeys are emerging as a new industry standard – replacing the traditional password with near-impossible to compromise cryptographic keys. AI-driven adaptive MFA is also transforming authentication into a more dynamic process capable of assessing real time behaviours and risk signals and prompting more verification as appropriate. All of this suggests a future where authentication is all the more secure.
Contact us today to find out more about protecting your business.
