What is Two-factor Authentication(2fa)?

The 2FA Authenticator is employed by users to safeguard their credentials and user data, offering a higher level of security compared to simpler authentication methods such as one-time passwords or passcodes. The two-step verification process begins with users providing their password or passcode as the initial authentication step. For the second factor, they utilize 2FA, which sends a one-time password (OTP) or a special text message to their personal phone number or email address to verify their identity and confirm their access.

How Two-factor authentication is different from conventional OTP.

Generally, both OTP (One-Time Password) and 2FA serve as authentication methods aimed at safeguarding user accounts from unauthorized access. However, there are some key differences.

One-Time Password (OTP):

SMS OTP is a technique involving the transmission of a unique code generated by a website or security token. This code remains valid for a brief time period, typically around 5 minutes, and if not used within this timeframe, it automatically expires. In this method, users rely solely on one factor, which usually involves entering the code along with their username to authenticate themselves.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

Two-factor authentication (2FA) incorporates a dual-layered approach to authentication. The first layer typically involves elements like a password, passcode, or even a smartphone's tap-to-login functionality. This initial factor is something that the user knows or possesses.

The second factor, distinct from the first, involves the receipt of a verification code sent via SMS or email. This code serves as a confirmation of the user's identity and the authenticity of their login attempt. In this method, after users correctly input the initial authentication factor, they are then prompted to enter a unique code in the second step.

This two-step verification process not only bolsters data security but also ensures that only authorized users gain access to their accounts, making it significantly more challenging for unauthorized individuals to breach security measures. Ultimately, 2FA provides a secure step against potential threats to user accounts and sensitive data

How 2FA Works with Authkey API? / Test two-factor authentication API

Before you start to test Authkey Two Factor authentication API you must have an Authkey account and dedicated APIs to send OTP and authenticate it.

Two factor authentication APIs 

Used to Send OTP

https://api.authkey.io/request?authkey=AUTHKEY&mobile=RecepientMobile&country_code=CountryCode&sid=1001

We will start with the first API mention above by setup its parameters 

Message template for two factor authentication 

While adding template in the authkey dashboard OTP variable parameter within the message text must be replaced by the #2fa#

Example 

Find SID

You will find the message template SID within USER dashboard section SMS → TEMPLATE.

Green selected part depicted below is SID. This SID is passed in the API.

Test 2FA API 

After fullfil of all the parameter in the API, you can hit it in your system browser 

OTP Received on user mobile number

Verifying LogID using 2nd API given below

https://authkey.io/api/2fa_verify.php?authkey=authkey&channel=sms,voice or email&otp=OTP value entered by customer&logid=LogID generated on request api

After fulfilling all the parameter in the API, you can hit it in your system browser.

Use Cases of 2-Factor Authentication 

Secure Login

Users can utilize Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for enhanced security during the login process. This adds an additional layer of protection, requiring a unique code sent to the user's device whenever they use their password to log in.

Passwordless Login

Users can also opt for Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) as a passwordless login option. With this approach, there's no need to remember a password each time they log in. Instead, they simply send an OTP to their personal device and complete the login. This method offers enhanced security since it requires a unique code that is valid for only a few minutes.

Phone Number Verification

Two-factor authentication (2FA) can also be employed to verify whether the phone number provided by the user is correct. Simply integrate the API into the backend system, and whenever a user enters their phone number, an OTP will be sent to that number. If the entered OTP matches the correct value, it confirms the authenticity of the user's phone number.

Account Verification

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is also employed for account verification. Sometimes, hackers can bypass security through email, so to secure an account and verify whether it belongs to an authentic user, 2FA can be used. This involves triggering an OTP to the user's phone number to confirm the account's authenticity.

Signup Verification

Sometimes, users use incorrect or fake email addresses during website signup to conceal their true identity. To prevent this, they can employ Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) as part of the signup verification process. This requires users to verify their phone number during the signup process before gaining access to further login features.

The importance of 2FA?

Most individuals and organizations store their data in the cloud or share it with entities, which has led to Hackers growing progressively more advanced. This, in turn, has resulted in a rise in hacking incidents and an increased risk of data misuse when it falls into the hands of unauthorized individuals. Relying solely on passwords in today's world is no longer sufficient. Many organizations are turning to multi-factor authentication as a means to safeguard their data and grant access only to authorized users.

When attackers attempt to access user data, it becomes significantly more challenging for them to breach security measures. Simply obtaining the password is no longer sufficient to bypass the security checks. They must acquire the unique 2FA code, which is sent to the user's phone, email, or voice. The 2FA authenticator plays a vital role in helping users form protection against data theft by hackers, whether it be from compromised databases or phishing attacks.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a direct measure that significantly reduces the risk of hacking. It introduces an additional layer of security by requiring users to provide a unique code, which is sent to them and valid for only a short period. This makes it nearly impossible for hackers to gain unauthorized access, enhancing data protection in an increasingly digital landscape.

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written by

Kundan Prasad

SEO Executive