What is Single Factor Authentication [Types, Pros & Cons]

Key Takeaways

Single-factor authentication (SFA) requires only one form of verification, typically a password. While SFA is simple and fast, it offers limited security compared to multi-factor authentication (MFA). Common use cases for SFA include email accounts, social media, and websites with less sensitive data.

Authentication allows the organization to enable security features in the system.

It allows only authenticated people to access the data and protects the resources from intruders or hackers. User authentication verifies the user identity.

There are three types of authentication: single-factor authentication, two-factor authentication, and multi-factor authentication. We have discussed single factor authentication with its types, pros, cons, and risks.

What is Single Factor Authentication?

As the name represents single factor authentication means the process through which it secured any system requires only one factor to identify the person requesting access.

Single-factor authentication allows a person based on only one factor that matches and supports the person’s identity.

Among other authentication method types, this is the usually used method. SFA includes authorization through passwords, knowledge by asking some questions, biometric, or any other single factor.

This is a traditional authentication system.

Single Factor authentication depends on the mutual trust between the user and service. It depends on the user that how strong the password he keeps the password and able to protect them from hackers.

Sometimes a problem arises when one keeps the same password for every account, and it results in the hacking of every account.

How Single-Factor Authentication Works?

Single-factor authentication is a simple method of user authentication that relies on just one factor to verify identity.

The most common form of SFA is the use of a password.

When a user tries to access an online account or system, they are prompted to enter their username and password. If the password matches the one stored in the system, access is granted.

Here is a breakdown of the process:

1. User Input: The user enters their credentials, typically a username and a password, into a login form.
2. Verification: The system checks the entered password against its stored record to verify the user’s identity.
3. Access Granted or Denied: If the password matches, the user gains access to their account or system. If not, the system denies access and often prompts for re-entry.

Since only one form of verification is required, this method is considered a single-factor process.

In contrast, multi-factor authentication requires two or more forms of verification, such as something you know (password), something you have (security token), or something you are (biometric data).

Types of Single-Factor Authentication

• Passwords: The most common form of SFA. Users must remember and enter a password to gain access to an account or service.
• PINs: A Personal Identification Number (PIN) is a short numerical code that may be used in place of a password, often for mobile devices or bank transactions.
• Security Tokens: In some cases, hardware tokens (like key fobs) can act as the single authentication factor.

Single Factor Authentication Examples

Single-factor authentication examples or applications include:

• Signing in two different apps using a password
• WhatsApp PIN verification
• Biometric systems
• Smart cards
• Token generation system

Single Factor Authentication Pros and Cons

There are three types of authentication: Single-factor authentication, two-factor authentication, and multifactor authentication.

Each type has distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of Single-Factor Authentication

• Simplicity: It is the simplest authentication process.
• Easy to Use: SFA is easy as you only have to clear one process
• Less Time: Single-factor reduces the time consumption.
• Independent: It does not need user cooperation.
• Strong: This is a sound method of authentication
• Non-troublesome: It makes the process hassle-free.
• RDP: it is defensive against RDP.

Cons of Single-Factor Authentication

• Data Breaching: Research shows that data breaching is high in SFA.
• Leak: It can leak passwords. Someone can steal the password using a keylogger or screen capture.
• Hack: Weak password results in hacking. They then used these passwords for phishing attempts.
• Blackmailing: Once someone stole the data, he/she can blackmail you.
• Affects Reputation: Data exploitation will negatively affect the reputation of the organization.
• Security: It is less secure.
• Access to Different Apps: Reusing passwords is dangerous, as a hacker can quickly access data of other applications as well.

Why is Single-factor Authentication Not Enough Protection?

No doubt single-factor authentication is easy and saves time, but it is not enough.

The reason for declaring it not enough is that the ratio of hacking of social media profiles or other accounts is because of the less secure password, or we keep the same password for every application.

If someone knows your password, PIN, or takes your smart ID card then he can do illegal tasks and in return, you will be punished.

Weak passwords or sharing PINs with others can breach data.

Biometric systems are stronger authentication systems, but they need a properly functioning hardware system; if it does not work well, biometric is of no use.

Single Factor Vs Multi-Factor Authentication

• Single-factor requires only one factor for authentication, while multifactor takes 2-3 steps to authenticate the person.
• In SFA, factors are password, fingerprint, or smart card. In MFA, once you enter a password, it will ask for another code sent on the email or number.
• In SFA user is not in control of factors, while in MFA users are in control of factors.
• There is a risk of keyloggers in single-factor authentication while there is no risk of keyloggers in multifactor authentication.

Single Factor Authentication Risk

Single-factor authentication is both secure and insecure.

Its security depends on the password or PIN you are using and how you are keeping your smart ID card safe.

Except for all the precautions, there is a colossal risk in SFA. SFA is vulnerable to phishing, theft, keylogger, and force attacks. Hacker can penetrate all your applications once he gets the password of anyone.

So, there is a data exploitation risk as well. Do Read Differences Between Authorization and Authentication

Common Use Cases for Single-Factor Authentication

1. Email Accounts

Most personal email accounts (e.g., Gmail, and Yahoo Mail) rely on passwords for authentication.

While some services now offer multi-factor authentication (MFA) as an optional security measure, many users continue to rely on a single password for quick and easy access.

2. Social Media Accounts

Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter typically use single-factor authentication, although many encourage users to enable two-factor authentication for added security.

3. Online Shopping

Websites like Amazon or eBay often only require a username and password to make purchases.

For users who don’t store sensitive payment details, this may be enough, but for others, multi-factor authentication would provide greater security.

4. Public Wi-Fi Networks

When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, many require only a password for authentication. This is often used in places like cafes, airports, or hotels.

The password ensures that only authorized users can access the network, but it doesn’t protect against other types of cyberattacks.

5. Low-Risk Applications

Single-factor authentication is sufficient for applications that don’t involve sensitive personal information.

For example, accessing news websites, blogs, and low-risk content may not require multi-factor authentication.

FAQs About Single-Factor Authentication

Q1: Is single-factor authentication secure?

While SFA is simple and convenient, it is generally considered less secure than multi-factor authentication because it relies on just one factor, typically a password, which can be compromised.

Q2: Can single-factor authentication prevent hacking?

Single-factor authentication offers basic protection, but it is vulnerable to attacks such as phishing and password theft. It is not sufficient for highly sensitive or critical data.

Q3: What’s the difference between single-factor and multi-factor authentication?

Single-factor authentication requires only one factor (e.g., password), while multi-factor authentication requires two or more factors, such as something you know, something you have, or something you are (e.g., biometrics).

Q4: Should I use single-factor authentication for online banking?

No, for sensitive applications like online banking, multi-factor authentication is recommended for better security.

Q5: Is password-based authentication the only form of single-factor authentication?

No, other forms of single-factor authentication include PINs and hardware tokens, though passwords remain the most common.

Conclusion

Single Factor authentication is a reliable process.

Sometimes it does not work because of the poor selection of passwords, the same Pin or password for all apps, and sharing them with others.

Always take measures of the consequences and follow the best practices to protect your system and data.

What one can do is set a strong password, use patterns in it so you can remember it easily, try to have different passwords/PINs for every app and do not save or share it with anyone.

Also, Checkout Rule Based Access Control Model Best Practices