# security token

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/security-token
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a physical device or a piece of software that creates a secret code to prove who you are. You use it to log in safely to your bank or work accounts.

For teachers: a physical device or digital software application that generates a one-time password or cryptographic signature to authenticate a user's identity. It provides an additional layer of security beyond a standard password.

## Examples

- I need my security token to log in to the company network.
- After entering her password, the employee had to check her security token for a six-digit code to complete the login process.
- To mitigate the risk of credential theft, the IT department issued hardware security tokens to all staff members accessing sensitive financial databases from remote locations.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the context of multi-factor authentication (MFA) or two-step verification.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.