Glossary

MFA

Multi-Factor Authentication
Quick definition: The generalized version of 2FA — combining more than one verification method.

Difference from 2FA

2FA uses exactly two factors (usually password + phone code).

MFA can use two or more factors. In high-security environments, three may be requested at once: password + phone code + fingerprint.

In practice, most systems say MFA but implement 2FA; the terms are used interchangeably.

Typical MFA combinations

Banking: Password + SMS code + (sometimes) phone confirmation.

Enterprise: Password + Authenticator + (for high-risk operations) hardware key.

Government: e-Signature card + PIN + (when needed) face recognition.

Adaptive MFA

Modern MFA systems are smart: requests from a known device or familiar location require only the password. New device, unusual location, or middle-of-the-night activity triggers an extra factor.

Onremo follows this approach — "don't ask for 2FA on this device for 30 days" is an option.

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