Final answer:
Two-factor authentication is exemplified by using a fingerprint scanner to unlock your phone, as it combines two different forms of authentication: something you know and something you have. Single-factor authentication like remembering a password does not meet the criteria for 2FA. Companies and governments use 2FA to enhance online security and prevent unauthorized access.
Step-by-step explanation:
The example of two-factor authentication from the options provided is using a fingerprint scanner to unlock your phone. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security process in which the user provides two different authentication factors to verify themselves. This method is an important tool in increasing security for individuals, as it adds an additional layer of protection beyond just knowing the password. With 2FA, even if a hacker were to guess or steal your password, they would still need the second factor to gain access.
Options such as remembering a complex password or answering a security question are examples of single-factor authentication, because they rely on one method of verification, which is something you know. In contrast, 2FA combines two types of verification: something you know (like a password or pin) and something you have (like a phone to receive a code or a fingerprint). The use of a fingerprint scanner is an example of a second factor in the form of something you have (your unique fingerprint), in addition to something you know (like a PIN or password).
For companies and governments, implementing stronger protections and 2FA on websites can help in safeguarding sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access, reducing the risk of scams and data breaches. It's critical for individuals to be educated in the best practices of cybersecurity to avoid getting scammed, including the use of two-factor authentication whenever possible.