What is MFA and why does it improve security?

• A. Two passwords
• B. Biometric data is the only factor used
• C. It replaces passwords with a single token
• D. Multi-factor authentication requires at least two verification factors; it blocks unauthorized access even if passwords are stolen

Answer: (D)

Multi-factor authentication uses more than one verification method from different categories to prove who you are. Rather than just entering a password, you combine at least two factors—such as something you know (a password) and something you have (a code from an authenticator app or a hardware token), or something you are (a biometric). This layered approach means that even if a password is stolen, the attacker still needs the second factor to gain access, which greatly reduces the chance of unauthorized access. The description that MFA requires at least two verification factors and blocks access even if passwords are stolen captures both the multi-factor requirement and the security benefit. The other options describe single-factor scenarios or relying on a single token, which do not provide the same level of protection against credential theft.