What is a potential impact of incorrect time settings on a multi-factor authentication system?

Incorrect time settings on a multi-factor authentication system can lead to frequent authentication failures. Multi-factor authentication often relies on time-sensitive codes generated by applications or sent via SMS that have a limited lifespan, usually valid for a short period. If the time is misconfigured on either the client or server side, the system may reject valid codes or expect codes that are not yet generated, resulting in a higher number of failed login attempts.

For example, if a user is trying to authenticate with a code that is only valid for 30 seconds but their device clock is slow or fast, they might enter a valid code that is no longer recognized because it’s perceived as being out of sync with the system's expected timeframe. This can cause frustration and hinder access to necessary resources, impacting user productivity and trust in the authentication mechanism.