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A username and password authentication scheme is considered "Multi-Factor Authentication" because the username and password represent the two different factors. True or false?

User Rzv
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Final answer:

The statement is false; Multi-Factor Authentication requires at least two distinct types of evidence for authentication, typically combining something the user knows (like a password), has (like a security token), or is (like a biometric trait). A username and password alone only represent one factor and therefore do not comprise Multi-Factor Authentication.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that a username and password authentication scheme is considered "Multi-Factor Authentication" because the username and password represent the two different factors is false. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) refers to a security system that requires more than one method of authentication from independent categories of credentials to verify the user's identity for a login or other transaction. This usually involves combining two or more independent credentials: something the user knows (password), something the user has (security token, smartphone), or something the user is (biometric verification).

Using just a username and password involves only one factor, something the user knows, and therefore does not constitute MFA. For increased security for individuals, implementing two-factor authentication (2FA), stronger passwords, and education to avoid getting scammed is essential. Similarly, companies and governments must strengthen protections on websites to prevent unauthorized access.

User Thomas Collett
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