Deep Dive: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Part of Prevention Methods — GCSE Computer Science
This deep dive covers Deep Dive: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) within Prevention Methods for GCSE Computer Science. Revise Prevention Methods in Network Security for GCSE Computer Science with 15 exam-style questions and 18 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 6 of 10 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 6 of 10
Practice
15 questions
Recall
18 flashcards
Deep Dive: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA requires multiple forms of verification from different categories:
- Something you KNOW:
- Password or PIN
- Security questions
- Pattern/gesture
- Something you HAVE:
- Phone (SMS code or authenticator app)
- Security key/token (e.g., YubiKey)
- Smart card or badge
- Something you ARE:
- Fingerprint
- Face recognition
- Iris or retina scan
- Voice recognition
Why MFA is effective: Even if an attacker steals your password (something you know), they still need your phone (something you have) or fingerprint (something you are). This makes accounts dramatically more secure - most attacks are stopped by MFA.