How do you design and execute test cases for multi-factor authentication (MFA) scenarios?

To design and execute test cases for multi-factor authentication (MFA) scenarios, it's crucial to comprehend the various MFA types and methods. These may include something the user knows (like a password), something they have (like smartphone or security token), or something they are (like biometric data). Understanding the intricacies of each method enables testers to craft comprehensive test cases that cover all potential authentication scenarios. This involves verifying the functionality of each factor individually as well as testing the seamless integration and interaction between them during the authentication process. Through meticulous testing, potential vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the MFA system can be identified & addressed.

MFA means that at least two of the following factors are required to authentication: - Factor 1: "Something You Know" = Passwords, PINs and security questions. - Factor 2: "Something You Have" = Hardware or software tokens, certificates, email, SMS, and phone calls. - Factor 3: "Something You Are" = Fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scans, handprint scans and behavioural factors. - Factor 4: "Location" = Source IP ranges, and geolocation. Requiring multiple examples of one factor isn't MFA, it may provide some security benefits over a simple password and may be considered two-step verification (2SV). Biometrics, like fingerprints, are emerging with standards like WebAuthn. Yet the most common second factor is “Something You Have”.

We tested MFA using Google Authenticator, simulating scenarios where the user’s first factor (password) was compromised. Test cases included validating correct OTP input, failed attempts with expired codes, and verifying push notification responses. I also incorporated edge cases, like network delays or time synchronization issues, to ensure comprehensive coverage. All test data, such as usernames and verification codes, were realistic to simulate real-world scenarios effectively.

Projetar e executar casos de teste para autenticação multifator (MFA) requer uma compreensão detalhada dos tipos e métodos de MFA disponíveis, bem como dos fluxos de trabalho e cenários em que são aplicados. Ao definir cuidadosamente os fluxos de trabalho e cenários de MFA, é possível projetar casos de teste abrangentes que cubram todas as possíveis combinações e situações de uso. Esses casos de teste devem ser executados meticulosamente, utilizando dados de teste relevantes, para validar a funcionalidade e a segurança da MFA. Os resultados devem ser cuidadosamente documentados e comunicados às partes interessadas para garantir a eficácia do processo de teste e a correção de quaisquer problemas identificados.