Which of the following significantly reduces the risk of password cracking?

Question

Options

• AImplementing multi-factor authentication
• BReusing passwords across systems
• CUsing predictable password patterns
• DUsing predictable password patterns

• A
  88% (22)
• B
  8% (2)
• D
  4% (1)

Explanation

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) significantly reduces password cracking risk because even if an attacker obtains or cracks a user's password, they still cannot gain access without the second factor (e.g., a one-time code, biometric, or hardware token). Options C and D are identical and both wrong - predictable patterns (like "Password1!" or keyboard walks) make passwords easier to crack, not harder. Option B is also wrong and a well-known anti-pattern: reusing passwords means a breach on one system exposes all systems where that password is used.

Memory tip: Think of MFA as a "second lock on the door" - even if a thief picks the first lock (cracks the password), they're still stopped cold by the second one. If you see "multi-factor" or "two-factor" on an exam question about reducing credential-based attacks, it's almost always the right answer.

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