Social engineering in security refers to the manipulation of people into performing actions or divulging confidential information, often by exploiting human emotions such as trust, fear, or urgency. Instead of attacking a computer system directly, social engineering targets the human element of security, making it one of the most effective and dangerous forms of cyberattack.
How 2FA Works
First factor (typically “something you know”): your username and password.
Second factor (must be a different category): one of:
Possession: a mobile device with an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator, Authy), or a hardware token such as a USB key or smart card.
Inherent (biometric): fingerprint scan, facial recognition, or voice recognition
Cisco Duo
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onelogin.com
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Reddit
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When logging in, you must provide both factors. Knowing only the password isn’t enough—your second factor must also be present
IBM
TechTarget
Investopedia
✅ Why It Matters
Stops unauthorized access, even if a password is stolen via phishing, malware, or brute-force attacks—you still need the second verification
Microsoft
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IBM
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phoenix NAP | Global IT Services
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Reduces risk of identity theft and data breaches by massively increasing the effort needed for an attacker to compromise your account
Trend Micro Help Center
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onelogin.com
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Reddit
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Helps organizations meet compliance requirements for securing sensitive information and systems
Cisco
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Cisco Duo
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🛠 Common 2FA Methods
Method Factor Type Pros Cons
SMS / Text Code Possession (soft token) Simple to set up Vulnerable to SIM swap/intercept
TechRadar
Cloud flare
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IBM
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Cisco
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Cisco Duo
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TechTarget
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Trend Micro Help Center
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Reddit
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The Sun
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Reddit
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Authenticator App (TOTP) Possession (app‑based) More secure; offline codes Requires device; backup needed
IBM
Cisco Duo
Laptop Mag
Push Notification Possession (app) Easy “tap to approve” convenience Vulnerable to MFA fatigue tactics
IBM
Cisco
Cisco
Hardware Security Key Possession (physical) Very strong; phishing-resistant May be lost; purchase required
IBM
Cisco
Biometric Verification Inherent Fast and user-friendly Privacy concerns; irreversible biometrics
IBM
onelogin.com
⚠️ Limitations and Risks
2FA is not invincible: attackers may still exploit phishing, SIM swap, or MFA fatigue attacks (push notification bombardment)
Microsoft
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IBM
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Wikipedia
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Backup planning is essential: losing access to your device may lock you out if you didn’t save backup codes or register alternative methods.
User error remains a risk: mistakenly approving a login can give attackers access
Reddit
Reddit
🔄 Real-World Example
A recent incident involved a high-profile X (formerly Twitter) account compromise—Elmo’s verified profile—where attackers accessed the account because the team hadn’t set up 2FA. The compromise likely could have been prevented by requiring a second verification step such as a code from an authenticator app
TechRadar
🧭 Final Summary
2FA requires two different forms of authentication, such as a password and a one-time code or biometric.
It greatly enhances account security, even if a password is exposed.
Authenticator apps and hardware keys offer superior strength to SMS-based codes.
While not perfect, 2FA is a highly effective, user-friendly defense that’s strongly recommended wherever available.
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