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Multifactor Authentication (MFA) Summary

Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

MFA uses multiple factors to verify a user's identity, enhancing security by requiring several proofs of identity:

  • Knowledge Factor: Something you know (e.g., password, PIN).
  • Possession Factor: Something you have (e.g., token, smartphone).
  • Inherence Factor: Something you are (e.g., fingerprint, facial recognition).
  • Location Factor: Someplace you are (e.g., GPS, IP address).

Combining these factors reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Additional Security Controls

  • Physical Access Controls: Keycards, biometric scanners, security personnel.
  • Procedural Controls: Policies and procedures for authentication.
  • Human Authentication: Verbal or visual verification by individuals.

Implementing MFA in SCIF or Military Installation

  • Access Control Points (ACP): Security personnel control entry with ID badges.
  • Physical Tokens: Smart cards or RFID tags for accessing secure areas.
  • Knowledge Factors: PINs or passwords for system access.
  • Security Clearances: Background checks and clearance levels for access.
  • Network and Data Access Controls: Additional authentication factors for secure systems.

Why PKI Might Be Used Over MFA

  • Data Encryption: PKI provides robust encryption, MFA does not.
  • Digital Signatures: PKI supports digital signatures, MFA does not.
  • Authentication and Authorization: PKI handles both, MFA mainly enhances authentication.
  • Secure Email: PKI enables secure email (S/MIME), MFA does not.
  • Device Authentication: PKI authenticates devices, MFA is user-centric.
  • Non-Repudiation: PKI ensures non-repudiation, MFA does not.

When to Use MFA

  • User Authentication: Ideal for securing logins.
  • Enhancing Password Security: Adds extra security layers.
  • Accessibility: Easy and quick to implement across platforms.

RSA Token

RSA tokens generate authentication codes using a built-in clock and a unique key. Benefits include portability, independence from network connectivity, strong authentication, and ease of deployment.

One-Time Password (OTP)

OTPs are temporary, single-use authentication codes. They provide an additional security layer by being valid only for a short period, reducing replay attack risks.

Privacy

  • Data Minimization: Collect only necessary information and promptly delete unnecessary data.
  • Data Security: Implement encryption, access controls, and secure transmission protocols to protect authentication data.