Two Factor Authentication (2FA) is when a user proves their identity two times when accessing an account. Most common 2FA is putting in a unique code — received via SMS or email — in addition to entering the username and password combination. 2FA is the simplest form of multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Two-factor authentication (2FA) prevents hackers from accessing accounts, even if they’ve obtained users’ login data as a result of a cyber-attack. Usernames & passwords combination resulting from data breaches can be exploited, most commonly through a technique called credential stuffing, in which passwords are recycled across multiple websites and applications.
2FA is effective in protecting accounts because it forces users to authenticate themselves in at least one more way other than just entering their credentials at login. So, even if hackers do have access to users’ credentials, they will not be able to easily access accounts that have 2FA turned on. Two-factor authentication methods range from SMS or email one-time passcodes (OTPs) to more complex approaches such as physical biometrics and behavioral biometrics.
But, the best companies obsess over user experience and seek 2FA solutions that enhance security without harming the experience of the legitimate user. Take for example an online account that is protected with typing biometrics — a form of behavioral biometrics — that authenticates users by how they type and uses that unique typing pattern as the second factor of authentication. When TypingDNA Verify 2FA is used for account protection, the way users type their username and password during login is used as a secondary piece of evidence, efficiently replacing the need for SMS or email authentication.
With TypingDNA Verify 2FA when two-factor authentication is required, your users will simply type 4 short words that appear on-screen. If how they type matches how they typed when they first registered, they’ll be successfully signed-in in less than 5 seconds!
Request a demo to see for yourself how Verify 2FA can keep your customers’ accounts safe in a user-friendly way.
