Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

What Is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication, also known as 2FA, is a type of security system that requires two separate methods to verify the identity of a user before they are allowed access to an account or system. 2FA works by adding a second stage instead of just using a password, so even if a password is stolen, it is much harder for someone else to access the account.

In most cases, 2FA combines two of these three factors: something you know, something you have, or something you are. That could be a password plus a one-time code, a password plus a code from an authenticator app, or a password plus some sort of biometric check. These categories are described by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) as the three main types of authentication factors.

Understanding Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) & Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Two-factor authentication and multi-factor authentication are related, but they are not the same.

2FA is the use of exactly two factors to authenticate identity. MFA is a broader category and can include two or more factors. In simple terms, all 2FA is MFA — but not all MFA is limited to two steps.

This is important because people often use these two terms interchangeably. In practice, 2FA usually means pairing a password with one additional verification method, while MFA may include a wider mix depending on the system and required security level.

Understanding 2FA: How It Works with Digital Products

2FA requires an initial login credential and then adds an extra verification step. That second step may include:

• one-time code delivered by SMS or voice call;
• a code from an authenticator app on your device;
• a security key or a trusted device;
• biometric verification such as a fingerprint or face scan.

2FA is primarily used by product teams to improve account security, protect sensitive actions, and reduce account takeover risks. This is particularly important for products where personal data, payment information, or private communication is stored.

What Is TOTP

TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) is an algorithm for generating one-time passwords based on the current time and a shared secret.
TOTP characteristics:

• based on the RFC 6238 standard;
• typically consists of 6 digits (sometimes 8);
• limited validity period (usually 30 seconds);
• each code can be used only once.

TOTP is widely supported by authenticator applications such as:

• Google Authenticator;
• Microsoft Authenticator;
• Authy;
• 1Password, Bitwarden, and others.

Where do Watchers use 2FA

Watchers use 2FA with TOTP to protect access to the back offices of the service for our clients. All moderators, community managers, and admins—users with the highest access level—have to use 2FA to start using the admin panel.

Read more on how Watchers protect service, clients, and data