multifactor authentication

American  

[muhl-tee-fak-ter aw-then-ti-key-shuhn, muhl-tahy-] / ˈmʌl tiˈfæk tər ɔˌθɛn tɪˈkeɪ ʃən, ˈmʌl taɪ- /

noun

Digital Technology.

1. a process of establishing identity and verifying permission to access an electronic device or computer network that requires two or more different forms of authorization, such as a password, a fingerprint scan, and a code sent via text message. MFA

---

Etymology

Origin of multifactor authentication

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

Since at least the Obama administration, the U.S. had been largely focused on defensive measures to protect elections, like multifactor authentication and encryption, which make it harder to compromise systems in the first place.

From Salon • May 21, 2026

IMC uses multifactor authentication and advanced endpoint protection, among other security tools, to guard access to its systems and data, Chief Information Security Officer David Ulloa said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 25, 2025

Congress should consider implementing basic cybersecurity regulations that require firms to implement encryption, multifactor authentication, continuous monitoring, and an incident response plan.

From Barron's • Nov. 13, 2025

It will use features found on many smartphones, such as biometrics and multifactor authentication, like security codes.

From BBC • Jan. 18, 2025

Even users with high-level administrator privileges can no longer turn off multifactor authentication when creating new accounts, Arsenault said.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 16, 2024