What does the acronym "MFA" stand for?

The acronym "MFA" stands for Multi-Factor Authentication. This is a security mechanism that requires the use of two or more verification factors to gain access to a system or account. Traditional authentication typically relies on a single factor, such as a password. However, multi-factor authentication enhances security by requiring additional forms of identification, which can include something you know (like a password), something you have (like a smartphone or hardware token), or something you are (like a fingerprint or facial recognition).

By implementing MFA, organizations significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access, as it is much more challenging for an attacker to compromise multiple distinct authentication factors compared to just one. This method is crucial in cybersecurity practices as it mitigates the impact of password theft and strengthens overall security posture.