Multi-factor authentication clause: Copy, customize, and use instantly
Introduction
A multi-factor authentication (MFA) clause sets requirements for using multiple verification methods—such as passwords plus device codes or biometrics—to secure access to systems and data. It helps prevent unauthorized access, mitigate account compromise, and strengthen overall information security controls.
Below are templates for multi-factor authentication clauses tailored to different scenarios. Copy, customize, and insert them into your agreement.
Standard multi-factor authentication clause
This version sets a general requirement for MFA use.
The [Service Provider] shall implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all personnel accessing systems, applications, or data under this Agreement, using at least two independent verification methods.
Multi-factor authentication clause with administrative access coverage
This version targets privileged system users.
The [Service Provider] shall enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all administrative or privileged accounts with access to infrastructure, production environments, or sensitive data.
Multi-factor authentication clause with customer access controls
This version ensures MFA for customer system users.
All users accessing the [Customer]’s systems, portals, or data under this Agreement shall be required to authenticate using multi-factor authentication (MFA) mechanisms approved by the [Customer].
Multi-factor authentication clause with token-based authentication
This version specifies token-based MFA methods.
The [Service Provider] shall implement token-based multi-factor authentication methods such as hardware security keys, mobile authentication apps, or one-time passcodes (OTP) for all system access.
Multi-factor authentication clause with biometric verification inclusion
This version expands authentication methods to include biometrics.
The [Service Provider] shall implement multi-factor authentication methods that include biometric verification, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, where supported by user devices.
Multi-factor authentication clause with time-based one-time password (TOTP) requirement
This version specifies use of TOTP systems.
The [Service Provider] shall require all users to utilize time-based one-time passwords (TOTP), generated through an authenticator app, as a second authentication factor.
Multi-factor authentication clause with user enrollment verification
This version requires validation of MFA setup before granting access.
The [Service Provider] shall ensure users complete multi-factor authentication enrollment and validation before receiving access credentials to systems or data.
Multi-factor authentication clause with re-authentication on session timeout
This version mandates MFA re-verification after inactivity.
Upon user session timeout or extended inactivity, the [Service Provider] shall require re-authentication using multi-factor authentication before access is restored.
Multi-factor authentication clause with minimum authentication factor standards
This version defines criteria for acceptable MFA methods.
Multi-factor authentication methods shall include at least one factor based on knowledge (e.g., password), one based on possession (e.g., mobile device), or one based on inherence (e.g., biometrics).
Multi-factor authentication clause with external system access restriction
This version restricts system access to MFA-enabled users only.
The [Service Provider] shall prevent access to external systems or applications used in connection with this Agreement by any users not authenticated through multi-factor authentication.
Multi-factor authentication clause with single sign-on (SSO) integration
This version requires MFA integration with SSO platforms.
The [Service Provider] shall integrate multi-factor authentication into all single sign-on (SSO) systems used for accessing customer-facing platforms or internal systems under this Agreement.
Multi-factor authentication clause with daily access confirmation
This version mandates daily MFA use.
All users accessing systems under this Agreement shall be required to complete multi-factor authentication each day, regardless of previous session activity or device trust status.
Multi-factor authentication clause with periodic review of MFA methods
This version supports regular updates to MFA technologies.
The [Service Provider] shall periodically review and update multi-factor authentication mechanisms to align with industry best practices and address emerging security threats.
Multi-factor authentication clause with risk-based authentication triggers
This version includes adaptive MFA measures.
The [Service Provider] shall implement risk-based authentication, requiring multi-factor verification based on user location, device, behavior anomalies, or access context.
Multi-factor authentication clause with hardware token enforcement
This version mandates physical tokens.
The [Service Provider] shall provide and enforce use of hardware tokens (e.g., FIDO2 keys or smart cards) as part of its multi-factor authentication program.
Multi-factor authentication clause with access tier differentiation
This version tailors MFA to sensitivity levels.
Multi-factor authentication shall be mandatory for all users, with enhanced verification steps for users accessing high-risk or sensitive data systems under this Agreement.
Multi-factor authentication clause with incident response escalation for MFA bypass
This version ties MFA failure to incident protocols.
Any attempt to bypass or disable multi-factor authentication controls shall be treated as a security incident and escalated through the [Service Provider]’s incident response procedures.
Multi-factor authentication clause with training and usage guidance
This version includes employee training.
The [Service Provider] shall provide user training and guidance on proper multi-factor authentication practices, including secure device handling and recovery procedures.
Multi-factor authentication clause with out-of-band verification
This version requires independent verification channels.
The [Service Provider] shall utilize out-of-band authentication for second-factor verification, requiring a separate communication channel such as SMS, voice call, or mobile app notification.
Multi-factor authentication clause with audit logging for verification attempts
This version adds monitoring of MFA usage.
All multi-factor authentication attempts, successes, and failures shall be logged and reviewed regularly by the [Service Provider] to identify access anomalies.
Multi-factor authentication clause with third-party service alignment
This version requires vendors to enforce MFA.
The [Service Provider] shall ensure that all third-party service providers or subcontractors with access to customer systems also implement multi-factor authentication controls.
Multi-factor authentication clause with mobile device binding
This version ties access to trusted mobile devices.
Multi-factor authentication shall include a device-binding feature, requiring access approval only from pre-authorized mobile devices registered to the user.
Multi-factor authentication clause with exception request protocol
This version governs rare exceptions.
Any exceptions to multi-factor authentication requirements must be formally documented and approved by the [Customer] prior to implementation.
Multi-factor authentication clause with internal policy alignment
This version requires consistency with internal InfoSec policies.
The [Service Provider]’s implementation of multi-factor authentication shall comply with its internal information security policy and be reviewed annually for alignment.
Multi-factor authentication clause with API access control
This version extends MFA to APIs.
The [Service Provider] shall apply multi-factor authentication or equivalent token-based controls to secure access to application programming interfaces (APIs) under this Agreement.
Multi-factor authentication clause with reset authentication procedure
This version addresses loss of second factor.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain a secure process for users to reset or recover multi-factor authentication credentials in the event of device loss or compromise.
Multi-factor authentication clause with enforcement timeline
This version sets a deadline for implementation.
The [Service Provider] shall implement multi-factor authentication for all covered systems within [30 days] from the Effective Date of this Agreement.
Multi-factor authentication clause with legacy system exemption handling
This version deals with older systems.
Where legacy systems do not support multi-factor authentication, the [Service Provider] shall implement compensating controls and submit an exemption plan to the [Customer].
Multi-factor authentication clause with continuous session verification
This version reinforces session integrity.
The [Service Provider] shall implement controls to periodically verify session validity during active use, requiring re-authentication via MFA in cases of suspicious activity.
Multi-factor authentication clause with cloud environment enforcement
This version targets cloud-based platforms.
The [Service Provider] shall enforce multi-factor authentication on all cloud platforms used to deliver services under this Agreement, including user and administrator access points.
Multi-factor authentication clause with third-party audit verification
This version allows independent MFA compliance checks.
The [Customer] may request evidence of multi-factor authentication implementation, including third-party audit reports or attestations of compliance.
Multi-factor authentication clause with contextual access restrictions
This version considers location and device context.
The [Service Provider] shall enforce context-aware access restrictions, requiring additional MFA steps for unrecognized devices, new locations, or high-risk activities.
Multi-factor authentication clause with customer-defined MFA policy
This version allows the customer to set MFA parameters.
The [Customer] may define multi-factor authentication standards, including minimum factor types and authentication workflows, which the [Service Provider] shall implement accordingly.
Multi-factor authentication clause with secure backup factor handling
This version requires protection of fallback methods.
The [Service Provider] shall ensure that backup authentication factors (e.g., recovery codes) are stored securely and accessible only by authorized personnel.
Multi-factor authentication clause with emergency break-glass access restrictions
This version controls emergency system access.
Emergency access accounts shall be protected by multi-factor authentication and require separate approval processes before activation.
Multi-factor authentication clause with technical enforcement via access gateway
This version enforces MFA at network entry points.
The [Service Provider] shall configure access gateways and reverse proxies to enforce MFA before granting access to internal systems and applications.
Multi-factor authentication clause with supplier onboarding validation
This version applies to new vendor access.
The [Service Provider] shall verify that all new suppliers or partners with system access implement multi-factor authentication before integration begins.
Multi-factor authentication clause with cross-border authentication security
This version addresses international access risks.
The [Service Provider] shall apply enhanced multi-factor authentication controls for users accessing systems from outside of [jurisdiction/region].
Multi-factor authentication clause with real-time authentication alerting
This version notifies on unusual MFA activity.
The [Service Provider] shall implement real-time alerting mechanisms for failed or suspicious multi-factor authentication attempts.
Multi-factor authentication clause with quarterly control testing
This version includes control testing for MFA systems.
The [Service Provider] shall perform quarterly testing of multi-factor authentication mechanisms to confirm effectiveness and address technical failures.
Multi-factor authentication clause with annual customer review rights
This version gives the customer oversight.
The [Customer] may request an annual review of the [Service Provider]’s MFA implementation, including test results, logs, and documentation.
Multi-factor authentication clause with proactive lockout thresholds
This version enforces account lockout rules.
The [Service Provider] shall enforce lockout thresholds after a defined number of failed MFA attempts and require administrator review before access restoration.
Multi-factor authentication clause with service onboarding checklist inclusion
This version builds MFA into service delivery.
Multi-factor authentication controls shall be included in the onboarding checklist for all new services deployed under this Agreement.
Multi-factor authentication clause with fallback MFA policy for low-connectivity scenarios
This version addresses limited connectivity risks.
In cases of low or no internet connectivity, the [Service Provider] shall implement fallback MFA options such as offline tokens or backup access codes.
Multi-factor authentication clause with user deprovisioning enforcement
This version ensures MFA is revoked on exit.
The [Service Provider] shall revoke all multi-factor authentication access credentials immediately upon termination or role change of any personnel.
Multi-factor authentication clause with integration audit trails
This version logs system integrations using MFA.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain audit trails of all system integrations requiring multi-factor authentication, including timestamps and connection metadata.
Multi-factor authentication clause with mutual party obligations
This version applies to both parties.
Both the [Customer] and [Service Provider] shall implement and maintain multi-factor authentication controls for all personnel with access to shared systems.
Multi-factor authentication clause with minimum entropy requirement
This version enforces secure factor strength.
All MFA components used under this Agreement shall meet minimum entropy and cryptographic strength requirements consistent with NIST recommendations.
Multi-factor authentication clause with secure device provisioning
This version mandates controlled distribution of authentication devices.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain secure provisioning procedures for all hardware devices used in MFA, including tracking, issuance, and revocation logs.
Multi-factor authentication clause with customizable enforcement policies
This version supports different user groups.
The [Service Provider] shall implement configurable MFA enforcement policies tailored to different user roles, access types, and security classifications.
Multi-factor authentication clause with disabled MFA detection
This version alerts on disabled settings.
The [Service Provider] shall monitor for and alert on any accounts where multi-factor authentication has been disabled or removed.
Multi-factor authentication clause with cloud console access restriction
This version protects infrastructure admin panels.
The [Service Provider] shall require multi-factor authentication for all users accessing cloud infrastructure management consoles, including development, staging, and production environments.
Multi-factor authentication clause with deprecated method restriction
This version prohibits outdated MFA methods.
The [Service Provider] shall not use deprecated or insecure multi-factor authentication methods, such as email-based codes or static PINs, unless explicitly approved in writing by the [Customer].
Multi-factor authentication clause with end-user device health verification
This version includes endpoint security checks before MFA access.
The [Service Provider] shall verify device health status—such as antivirus presence and OS patch levels—prior to granting MFA-based system access.
Multi-factor authentication clause with federated identity integration
This version supports identity federation.
The [Service Provider] shall support multi-factor authentication through federated identity providers approved by the [Customer], including SAML, OAuth, or OpenID Connect protocols.
Multi-factor authentication clause with user behavior analytics linkage
This version connects MFA to behavioral insights.
The [Service Provider] shall integrate user behavior analytics into its access control systems to trigger enhanced MFA challenges based on risk patterns.
Multi-factor authentication clause with adaptive authentication escalation
This version escalates challenge complexity.
The [Service Provider] shall implement adaptive authentication protocols that escalate MFA challenges in response to anomalous behavior or sensitive actions.
Multi-factor authentication clause with secure onboarding validation
This version ensures MFA is part of new user onboarding.
The [Service Provider] shall enforce multi-factor authentication setup as part of all new user onboarding workflows prior to system access.
Multi-factor authentication clause with geofencing controls
This version restricts access by location.
The [Service Provider] shall enforce geofencing controls requiring additional MFA verification for logins from high-risk or foreign geographies.
Multi-factor authentication clause with hardware cryptographic key support
This version encourages secure hardware-based factors.
The [Service Provider] shall support the use of hardware-based cryptographic keys (e.g., YubiKey, Titan Key) as MFA methods for privileged users.
Multi-factor authentication clause with automatic lockout on credential reuse
This version detects password/MFA reuse.
The [Service Provider] shall monitor for credential reuse and trigger account lockout if previously compromised passwords or MFA factors are used.
Multi-factor authentication clause with centralized policy enforcement
This version ensures consistency across systems.
The [Service Provider] shall enforce multi-factor authentication policies centrally across all systems, applications, and services subject to this Agreement.
Multi-factor authentication clause with secure biometric data handling
This version ensures privacy for biometric credentials.
The [Service Provider] shall store and process biometric authentication data in encrypted form and in accordance with applicable privacy and data protection regulations.
Multi-factor authentication clause with detailed reporting dashboard
This version mandates visibility.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain a centralized dashboard with real-time reporting on multi-factor authentication activity, success rates, and anomalies.
Multi-factor authentication clause with remote worker access restriction
This version governs offsite access.
The [Service Provider] shall restrict remote worker access to systems under this Agreement unless multi-factor authentication is enabled and verified.
Multi-factor authentication clause with rotating authentication devices
This version includes periodic device renewal.
The [Service Provider] shall require periodic replacement or re-enrollment of MFA devices for personnel with elevated privileges.
Multi-factor authentication clause with integration-specific MFA controls
This version tailors MFA based on system type.
The [Service Provider] shall configure MFA enforcement per system integration, ensuring factor strength and access policies match data sensitivity levels.
Multi-factor authentication clause with log correlation requirement
This version improves breach detection.
The [Service Provider] shall correlate MFA access logs with system activity logs to detect unauthorized access attempts or compromise indicators.
Multi-factor authentication clause with biometric fallback control
This version governs backup options.
Where biometric authentication is used, the [Service Provider] shall define fallback authentication procedures in cases where biometrics fail or are unavailable.
Multi-factor authentication clause with time-limited session tokens
This version defines access windows.
The [Service Provider] shall implement time-limited session tokens tied to successful MFA verification, requiring re-authentication after token expiry.
Multi-factor authentication clause with escalation process for repeated failures
This version flags abnormal login behavior.
The [Service Provider] shall define an escalation process for users who repeatedly fail multi-factor authentication, including lockouts and identity verification checks.
Multi-factor authentication clause with compliance to NIST 800-63B
This version aligns with formal guidance.
The [Service Provider] shall implement multi-factor authentication in accordance with NIST Special Publication 800-63B Digital Identity Guidelines.
Multi-factor authentication clause with user alias blocking
This version prevents account spoofing.
The [Service Provider] shall prohibit the use of shared or alias accounts for accessing systems that require multi-factor authentication.
Multi-factor authentication clause with just-in-time access controls
This version grants temporary verified access.
The [Service Provider] shall require multi-factor authentication before granting just-in-time (JIT) access privileges and automatically revoke access after task completion.
Multi-factor authentication clause with seasonal risk control escalation
This version addresses periodic threat fluctuations.
The [Service Provider] shall escalate MFA challenge frequency during known high-risk periods, such as year-end reporting or public disclosure timelines.
Multi-factor authentication clause with device risk scoring
This version adds device-level intelligence.
The [Service Provider] shall incorporate device risk scoring into its MFA engine and require additional authentication steps for high-risk devices.
Multi-factor authentication clause with secure user provisioning API
This version manages user creation via API.
The [Service Provider] shall expose a secure provisioning API with built-in multi-factor authentication enforcement for user creation and account management.
Multi-factor authentication clause with MFA bypass detection logging
This version tracks privilege misuse.
The [Service Provider] shall log and investigate any attempt to bypass multi-factor authentication, including service-level override or backend access paths.
Multi-factor authentication clause with user behavior tracking for policy tuning
This version makes MFA adaptive.
The [Service Provider] shall track usage behavior patterns to dynamically adjust MFA policy sensitivity and reduce false positives or unnecessary friction.
Multi-factor authentication clause with self-service MFA recovery
This version provides secure recovery without admin input.
The [Service Provider] shall enable users to perform self-service MFA recovery via a secure workflow that includes identity verification and one-time admin review.
Multi-factor authentication clause with customer override rights
This version allows customer-enforced standards.
The [Customer] reserves the right to override the [Service Provider]’s MFA configurations and define stricter enforcement levels as required.
Multi-factor authentication clause with mobile device attestation
This version verifies mobile security posture.
The [Service Provider] shall require mobile devices used for MFA to pass attestation checks confirming OS version, encryption status, and security patch levels.
Multi-factor authentication clause with regional policy variance
This version permits local policy tweaks.
The [Service Provider] may adjust multi-factor authentication policies by region or jurisdiction, provided the baseline controls meet global security minimums.
Multi-factor authentication clause with physical separation of authentication factors
This version enforces factor independence.
The [Service Provider] shall ensure authentication factors are independent and not hosted on the same device or platform, in accordance with zero trust architecture principles.
Multi-factor authentication clause with temporary code lifespan enforcement
This version defines token validity windows.
All one-time passcodes used for multi-factor authentication shall expire within a maximum window of [60 seconds] to minimize replay attack risk.
Multi-factor authentication clause with contractor access restrictions
This version governs third-party access.
The [Service Provider] shall require all contractors or temporary staff with system access to authenticate via multi-factor authentication, without exception.
Multi-factor authentication clause with voice-based challenge option
This version includes voice verification as a method.
The [Service Provider] may, subject to prior approval, implement voice-based biometric verification as an MFA method for identity-sensitive workflows.
Multi-factor authentication clause with software agent verification
This version validates endpoint agents.
The [Service Provider] shall require successful verification of endpoint software agents (e.g., antivirus, MDM) prior to granting MFA-authenticated access.
Multi-factor authentication clause with compliance log retention timeline
This version mandates evidence storage.
MFA-related authentication logs shall be retained for a minimum of [12 months] and made available to the [Customer] upon request for compliance verification.
Multi-factor authentication clause with customer-specific login templates
This version provides branding and structure control.
The [Service Provider] shall implement customer-specific MFA login templates where applicable, to reflect branding and specific login workflows.
Multi-factor authentication clause with shared credential lockout
This version blocks MFA for reused credentials.
The [Service Provider] shall lock and investigate any user account that shares MFA credentials across multiple individuals.
Multi-factor authentication clause with inactive account detection
This version ties MFA to account activity.
The [Service Provider] shall monitor for dormant accounts and require MFA re-verification before reactivating any inactive user access.
Multi-factor authentication clause with system change notification
This version mandates customer notification.
The [Service Provider] shall notify the [Customer] at least [10 days] in advance of any material change to its MFA systems or policies.
Multi-factor authentication clause with password rotation syncing
This version links password change to MFA refresh.
The [Service Provider] shall enforce MFA device revalidation following any password rotation to ensure alignment of all authentication layers.
Multi-factor authentication clause with customer-managed authentication policy
This version hands control to the customer.
The [Customer] may elect to manage and enforce multi-factor authentication policies directly using its own identity and access management tools.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.