Which of the following describes multi-factor authentication?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is accurately described as a security mechanism requiring multiple forms of verification. This approach enhances security by necessitating more than one credential from different categories of authentication factors. Typically, these factors fall into three categories: something you know (like a password), something you have (like a security token or smartphone app), and something you are (like a fingerprint or facial recognition).

By implementing MFA, organizations significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access because even if one factor (such as a password) is compromised, the intruder would still need additional verification from the other factors. This layered security strategy is critical in protecting sensitive information and maintaining user trust in digital environments.