Two-factor authentication (2FA)

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a critical security measure that adds an extra layer of protection to your User account on this wiki, and indeed, to any online account. It significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if your password is compromised. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding and implementing 2FA on this MediaWiki installation, covering the principles behind it, the available methods, how to set it up, troubleshooting, and best practices. We will also discuss the broader context of online security and why 2FA is increasingly vital.

What is Two-Factor Authentication?

Traditionally, online security relies on a single factor: something you *know* – your password. However, passwords can be vulnerable. They can be guessed, cracked, stolen through phishing attacks, or reused across multiple sites, creating a single point of failure.

2FA addresses this vulnerability by requiring a *second* factor to verify your identity. This second factor falls into one of two categories:

**Something you have:** This is typically a physical device or a digital code generated by an app on your smartphone. Examples include:

   *   Authenticator apps (like Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator)
   *   Hardware security keys (like YubiKey)
   *   SMS codes (though these are becoming less secure – see "Security Considerations" below)

**Something you are:** This refers to biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanning or facial recognition. While becoming more common, this is less frequently supported directly by MediaWiki installations.

By requiring both a password *and* a second factor, 2FA makes it exponentially more difficult for an attacker to gain access to your account, even if they have your password. They would also need physical access to your device or the ability to intercept the second factor, which is significantly harder. Think of it like having two locks on your door instead of one.

Why is 2FA Important?

The threat landscape is constantly evolving. Here’s why 2FA is no longer optional, but a necessity:

**Password breaches are common:** Large-scale data breaches happen frequently, exposing millions of usernames and passwords. If you reuse passwords, an attacker gaining access to one account could compromise many others.
**Phishing attacks are sophisticated:** Phishing emails and websites are becoming increasingly convincing, tricking users into revealing their credentials.
**Malware can steal passwords:** Keyloggers and other malware can capture your keystrokes, including your password.
**Brute-force attacks:** Attackers can use automated tools to try countless password combinations until they find the right one. 2FA makes brute-force attacks much less effective.
**Account takeover:** If an attacker gains access to your account, they can cause significant damage, including modifying content, spreading misinformation, and potentially gaining access to other sensitive systems. On a wiki like this, that could mean vandalism, disruption of collaboration, and loss of valuable information. Understanding Vandalism prevention is related to the need for strong security.

2FA isn’t a silver bullet, but it significantly raises the bar for attackers and makes your account much more secure. It’s a core component of a robust security strategy, complementing other measures like strong passwords and regular software updates. Consider learning about Security policies to further enhance your protection.

2FA Methods Available on This Wiki

This MediaWiki installation supports the following 2FA methods:

**Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) via Authenticator App:** This is the recommended method. You download an authenticator app (see "Setting Up 2FA" below) to your smartphone. The app generates a six-digit code that changes every 30 seconds. You enter this code in addition to your password when logging in.
**Hardware Security Key (U2F/FIDO2):** This method uses a physical security key, like a YubiKey, that you plug into your computer’s USB port. When prompted, you touch the key to verify your identity. This is considered the most secure method.
**Email Verification (Limited Support):** In some cases, a code may be sent to your registered email address. While better than nothing, this is less secure than TOTP or hardware keys as email accounts themselves can be compromised.

The availability of each method might depend on the specific configuration of this wiki and any installed extensions.

Setting Up 2FA

Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up 2FA using TOTP with an authenticator app, the recommended method:

1. **Install an Authenticator App:** Choose an authenticator app for your smartphone. Popular options include:

   *   **Google Authenticator:** [1](https://goo.gl/uEqUPh) (Android & iOS)
   *   **Authy:** [2](https://authy.com/) (Android & iOS)
   *   **Microsoft Authenticator:** [3](https://microsoft.com/en-us/security/authenticator-app) (Android & iOS)
   *   **FreeOTP:** [4](https://freeotp.github.io/) (Android & iOS)

2. **Navigate to Your User Preferences:** Log in to your User profile on this wiki. Click on the "Preferences" tab.

3. **Access the 2FA Settings:** Within your preferences, look for a section labeled "Security" or "Two-Factor Authentication."

4. **Enable 2FA:** Click the button to enable 2FA.

5. **Scan the QR Code:** The wiki will display a QR code. Open your authenticator app and select the option to "Add Account" or "+". Use your app’s camera to scan the QR code.

6. **Enter the Verification Code:** The authenticator app will generate a six-digit code. Enter this code into the field provided on the wiki. This confirms that the app is correctly configured.

7. **Save Recovery Codes:** *Important!* The wiki will provide you with a set of recovery codes. These codes are crucial if you lose access to your authenticator app (e.g., if your phone is lost or stolen). **Store these codes in a safe and secure location, separate from your phone.** Printing them out and storing them in a secure physical location is recommended. Consider using a Password manager to securely store these codes.

8. **Confirm and Enable:** Confirm your settings and enable 2FA.

- Setting up a Hardware Security Key:**

The process for setting up a hardware security key varies depending on the key and your browser. Generally, you’ll need to:

1. **Register the Key:** In the 2FA settings on the wiki, select the option to register a security key. 2. **Follow Browser Prompts:** Your browser will prompt you to touch the security key. 3. **Name the Key:** Give the key a descriptive name (e.g., "Work Key"). 4. **Save the Key:** Save the registered key.

Using 2FA When Logging In

Once 2FA is enabled, the login process will change slightly:

1. **Enter Your Username and Password:** As usual. 2. **Enter the Verification Code:** You will be prompted to enter the six-digit code generated by your authenticator app or to touch your security key. 3. **Log In:** Submit the code or touch the key to complete the login process.

Troubleshooting 2FA Issues

Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

**Incorrect Code:**

   *   **Time Synchronization:**  Ensure that the time on your smartphone is synchronized correctly.  Authenticator apps rely on accurate time.  Enable automatic time synchronization in your phone's settings.
   *   **Multiple Accounts:** If you have multiple accounts with 2FA enabled, make sure you're using the correct code for this wiki.
   *   **Resyncing (Authy):**  Authy allows you to resynchronize your account if the time is off.

**Lost Access to Authenticator App:** This is where your recovery codes come in. Use one of your recovery codes to log in and disable 2FA, then set it up again. If you didn't save your recovery codes, you will need to contact a Sysop for assistance.
**Lost or Stolen Security Key:** If you lose your security key, you'll need to use a recovery code (if you have one) or contact a Sysop for assistance.
**Browser Compatibility (Hardware Keys):** Ensure your browser supports WebAuthn (FIDO2) for hardware security keys. The latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, and Edge generally have good support.
**Authenticator App Not Working:** Try uninstalling and reinstalling the authenticator app.

Security Considerations

**SMS-Based 2FA:** While better than nothing, SMS-based 2FA is less secure than TOTP or hardware keys. SMS messages can be intercepted or redirected by attackers.
**Recovery Code Security:** Protect your recovery codes as carefully as you protect your password. If an attacker gains access to your recovery codes, they can bypass 2FA.
**Phishing Awareness:** Be wary of phishing attempts. Always verify that you're on the legitimate wiki website before entering your login credentials or 2FA code. Don't click on links in suspicious emails. Understanding Social engineering is crucial.
**Regularly Review 2FA Settings:** Periodically review your 2FA settings to ensure everything is configured correctly.
**Keep Software Updated:** Keep your authenticator app, browser, and operating system up to date to benefit from the latest security patches.
**Consider a Password Manager:** A reputable Password manager can help you generate and store strong, unique passwords, making it harder for attackers to compromise your accounts.

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