Microsoft and Google advocate for two-factor authentication (2FA) as a robust defense against account takeovers, highlighting its efficacy in blocking automated bots, bulk phishing, and targeted attacks. The distinction between 2FA and two-step verification lies in the additional security layer 2FA provides, requiring either a physical item in the user's possession or biometric verification beyond a password. This method effectively addresses authentication vulnerabilities that cyber attackers exploit. Popular 2FA configurations include SMS text messages, authenticator apps, security tokens, physical keys, and biometric technologies like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. While SMS-based 2FA is user-friendly, it is less secure due to interception risks, whereas hardware-based solutions like security tokens are favored by cybersecurity experts. Despite privacy concerns, biometric 2FA offers a balance between convenience and security, with technologies like Apple's Face ID and Windows Hello being widely used. As traditional password security weakens, 2FA is becoming a standard practice to protect against fraudulent account takeovers, with many web services offering configurable 2FA options through popular apps and password managers.