two-factor authentication
noun
two-fac·tor authentication
ˈtü-ˈfak-tər- 
: a method of verifying the identity of a person (as for granting access to a system) by requiring a password and an additional form of authorization (such as a code, a fingerprint, or a smartphone app)
—abbreviation 2FA
compare multi-factor authentication
Examples of two-factor authentication in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Use two-factor authentication and a password manager: If a scam compromises your login credentials, two-factor authentication (2FA) can block unauthorized access.
—
Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2025
Simple habits make a difference: using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication can deter many threats.
—Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 25 June 2025
An investigative report from Lighthouse Reports claims that millions of two-factor authentication codes for services run by tech giants like Amazon, Google and Meta were being routed using Fink Telecom Services–which allegedly has links to the spyware industry.
—Thomas Brewster, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
However, Google also recommends that users upgrade their Gmail account's security by moving on from older sign-in methods like passwords and two-factor authentication.
—Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for two-factor authentication
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Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2025
Simple habits make a difference: using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication can deter many threats.
—Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 25 June 2025
An investigative report from Lighthouse Reports claims that millions of two-factor authentication codes for services run by tech giants like Amazon, Google and Meta were being routed using Fink Telecom Services–which allegedly has links to the spyware industry.
—Thomas Brewster, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
However, Google also recommends that users upgrade their Gmail account's security by moving on from older sign-in methods like passwords and two-factor authentication.
—Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for two-factor authentication
Cite this Entry
“Two-factor authentication.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/two-factor%20authentication. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.
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