turvakysymykset

Turvakysymykset, often translated as security questions or secret questions, are a common method used for identity verification and account recovery. They typically consist of a pre-selected question and a user-provided answer, designed to be known only by the account holder. When a user forgets their password or needs to confirm their identity, they are prompted to answer these security questions. If the answers match what was previously stored, the user is granted access or can proceed with resetting their password.

The effectiveness of turvakysymykset relies on the assumption that the answers are not easily guessable or discoverable by unauthorized individuals. Common examples include questions about a user's mother's maiden name, first pet's name, or birthplace. However, the security of this method has been debated. Information like a mother's maiden name is often publicly available through social media or public records, making it a less secure option. Furthermore, if an attacker gains access to some personal information about the user, they might be able to deduce the answers to these questions.

Due to these vulnerabilities, turvakysymykset are increasingly being supplemented or replaced by more robust authentication methods. Multi-factor authentication (MFA), which requires users to provide two or more verification factors, is considered a significantly more secure approach. While turvakysymykset can still serve as a basic layer of security, they are best used in conjunction with other security measures.