Can Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) Identity Protection invoke Multi-Factor Authentication based on a user's risk level?

Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) Identity Protection can indeed invoke Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) based on a user's risk level. This feature is designed to enhance security by adapting responses to potential threats based on real-time risk assessments.

When a sign-in attempt is evaluated and deemed risky—whether it challenges a particular user behavior, involves an unusual location, or displays identity anomalies—Azure AD can require additional verification steps through MFA. This adaptive approach helps to prevent unauthorized access while balancing user experience, as legitimate users can continue to access resources with minimal friction unless a risk is detected.

In this context, it is essential to understand that Azure AD Identity Protection doesn't limit MFA actions to only high-risk users or specific groups; it can apply to various risk levels based on defined policies. Thus, the broad capability of invoking MFA across a spectrum of risk levels reinforces the security posture within Azure AD, protecting sensitive data and resources effectively.