Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Overview
Proof employs multi-factor authentication (MFA) to enhance security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors—knowledge, possession, or inherence—where login MFA, mandatory for all notary accounts, protects account access via codes sent by text or authenticator apps, while transaction MFA, available only to organizations, verifies recipient identity through phone authentication with premium tiers allowing voice call options for sign-only transactions.
The short answer: Proof uses multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security beyond passwords. MFA can protect your account login, individual transactions, or both — depending on how it's configured.
How It Works
MFA requires users to present 2 or more pieces of evidence before gaining access:
- 1.Knowledge — something the user knows
- 2.Possession — something the user has
- 3.Inherence — something the user is (biometric data such as fingerprints or facial recognition)
Types of MFA at Proof
MFA provides different protections depending on the type. Login MFA protects your account from unauthorized access. Transaction MFA verifies recipient identity and protects sensitive documents from fraud.
Login Multi-Factor Authentication
Login MFA requires users to sign in with their username and password, then provide a code sent via text or generated in their authenticator app. Login MFA is required for all notary accounts.
Transaction Multi-Factor Authentication
Transaction MFA requires recipients to authenticate their phone number before proceeding. They receive a code at the start of the transaction to confirm their identity.
This type of MFA is available to organizations only — not notaries.
Sign transactions only: Organizations on the Premium tier or higher can allow signers to authenticate via voice call instead of text.
Summary Checklist
- Login MFA protects your account from unauthorized access — required for all notary accounts.
- Transaction MFA verifies recipient identity and protects sensitive documents — available to organizations only.
- Organizations on Premium or higher can allow voice call authentication for sign-only transactions.
If you are still unsure, the support team is available to help.
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The Proof Help Center guide explains how to set up mandatory Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for notary accounts by logging into your account, navigating to Account Information, selecting and enabling either SMS or an authenticator app as your preferred MFA method, and following the prompts to complete the setup for enhanced login security.
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