Two-Factor Authentication
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security mechanism that requires users to provide two distinct forms of identification to verify their identity, typically combining something they know (like a password) with something they have (like a smartphone app or hardware token) or something they are (like biometric data). It adds an extra layer of protection beyond just passwords, making it significantly harder for unauthorized users to gain access to accounts or systems. This method is widely used to secure online services, applications, and sensitive data.
Developers should learn and implement 2FA to enhance security in applications, especially for user authentication in web and mobile apps, financial systems, and any service handling sensitive information. It is crucial for compliance with security standards like GDPR or PCI-DSS and helps prevent common attacks such as phishing, credential stuffing, and password breaches. Use cases include login flows for banking apps, email services, and enterprise software where data protection is a priority.