What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and Should I Use it if Available?
Let’s start off with what MFA is. If you haven’t already heard about it, you will. In the past most computer accounts only offered a username and password as an option to access and secure your accounts. With the increasing sophistication of hackers and password crackers available to most anyone, it is a good idea to use this additional security measure to protect your information. MFA covers a variety of methods. It is basically another step that is required to access your account aside from just a username and password. This third step could be a text message or email sent to you that gives you a one-time code to type in when trying to access your account. It could be a finger print that needs to be scanned in for access. In some cases, they are even doing face recognition where if it is not you behind the computer screen, access is denied.
MFA is arguably the most secure method available today to access your private accounts. To crack it, the bad guy not only would need to hack your password to an account, but would also need access to your phone for a text or would need your fingerprint or your face.
It is very important and highly recommended to be used if it is available, especially if you are doing online purchases. Is it a pain? Yes, but a small one considering it could save you from years of trying to repair your identity if it is stolen.
