FC0-U71 Security Practice Question
Which of the following is an example of multi-factor authentication?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Using a PIN and a smart card
MFA requires two or more factors: something you know (PIN), something you have (smart card), something you are (biometric). Option A combines a PIN (know) and a smart card (have).
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Using a PIN and a smart card
Why this is correct
A PIN (something you know) and a smart card (something you have) represent two different authentication factors, making this a valid example of multi-factor authentication.
- ✗
Using a password and answering a security question
Why it's wrong here
A password and a security question are both 'something you know' factors, so this combines only one factor type and is not multi-factor authentication.
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Using a fingerprint scanner alone
Why it's wrong here
A fingerprint scanner alone is 'something you are'—a single factor. Multi-factor authentication requires at least two different factor types.
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Using a password and a one-time code sent via SMS
Why it's wrong here
Although a one-time code is sent via SMS, it must be entered by the user, so it is considered 'something you know'—the same factor type as the password. Thus, this is not multi-factor authentication.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This FC0-U71 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the FC0-U71 exam.