Certified Incident Handler (CIH) Practice Ecam

Which element of information security is ensured when multi-factor authentication is enabled?

1. Integrity

2. Confidentiality

3. Availability

4. Authenticity

The correct answer is: Confidentiality

When multi-factor authentication (MFA) is enabled, it primarily ensures authenticity within the realm of information security. Authenticity refers to the process of verifying the identity of a user or system before granting access to resources or information. By requiring multiple forms of verification—such as a password, a fingerprint, or a one-time code sent to a mobile device—MFA creates a more robust mechanism to confirm that the individual attempting to access a system is indeed who they claim to be. This enhancement significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, thereby safeguarding sensitive information and systems. While confidentiality, integrity, and availability are also important aspects of information security, they are not the primary focus of multi-factor authentication. Confidentiality pertains to protecting information from unauthorized access, integrity involves ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data, and availability assures that information and resources are accessible when needed. In contrast, the primary role of MFA is to verify the user's identity, underscoring the importance of authenticity in securing systems.