2-factor authentication or 2FA for short: Two-tier security method for protecting bank, card, or customer accounts from unauthorized access. The 2FA process combines at least two independent factors to verify identity, namely
- Knowledge factor, e.g. passwords, PINs or answers to secret questions.
- Possession factor: for example, smartphone, smartwatch, card, token. Possession factor: for example, smartphone, smartwatch, card, token..
- Biometrics factor: for example, fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scan, signature.
To perform a successful 2FA, users must therefore legitimize themselves twice. Example: Entering a password (knowledge) plus confirmation SMS on a registered cell phone (possession).
