SMS verification is a method of authentication that involves sending a one-time code to a user via text message. You may also know this as SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) or SMS one-time passwords (OTP).

It's not perfect, and it has its share of risks, but it can be effective in deterring fraudsters from buying items on your website. Here are some things to consider before using SMS verification for your business:

Security

When a website user enters their phone number during the sign-in process, an SMS text message is then sent to their mobile device with a one-time code. This verification code can be used to verify the authenticity of a person's account or information, and it can help protect a user from fraudulent activities and prevent the theft of their personal data.

Authentication codes are easy for most people to receive and use, making them a useful security measure for websites and apps. Using SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) is also a quick and seamless way to add an extra layer of protection to an account.

However, it's important to remember that SMS verification is not a secure authentication method on its own. Hackers have found ways to intercept SMS messages and hijack SIM cards, so this security measure should be paired with other fraud prevention tools. It should also be implemented early in the sign-up process so that it doesn't add friction to the customer experience.

Convenience

Businesses can ask customers to enter a verification code sent via SMS after they supply their username and password. This can help prevent fraud tactics like account takeover, a process in which a bad actor gains access to an authenticated user’s account and makes purchases on their behalf.

Although SMS verification has its drawbacks, it is a convenient solution for both consumers and merchants. It is easy to implement and requires no additional apps or services. It also works well with existing devices and can be used with multiple accounts and mobile phones.

However, it’s important to note that SMS isn’t a failsafe against fraud and needs to be deployed alongside other authentication methods. Bad actors can intercept SMS messages or hack into a customer’s SIM card to gain unauthorized access to an account. In addition, users lose their devices often, making it hard to know which device an SMS verification code was sent from.

Cost

Using sms code verification service can reduce the number of spam text messages that reach consumers. It can also reduce the number of fake or invalid numbers that are used to sign up for services and receive notifications or emails. This helps businesses to build trust and increase conversion rates.

Many users of digital platforms appreciate the need for a smooth and reliable authentication experience. This is why developers or product teams often consider SMS verification as a key part of their platform's functionality.

However, it is worth bearing in mind that SMS verification cannot stop all fraud attempts completely. Fraudsters can intercept or hack into the SMS message and obtain the authentication code. This is why other methods of verifying a buyer's identity are often used alongside SMS verification, such as using apps like Google Authenticator that generate a code directly on the user's device and require an additional step to enter the code. This helps prevent false positive blocks and keeps costs down.

Implementation

The security benefits of SMS verification can be a significant draw for many users. It can help protect digital platforms from fraudsters and stop unauthorized access to user accounts. It’s also a good way to send notifications to users and customers, such as order status updates or shipping confirmations.

However, the system is not foolproof and can be easily compromised by bad actors. Hackers have developed methods to intercept and modify SMS messages or even hijack SIM cards to gain unauthorized access to users’ phones. This can cause phishing attacks and other types of fraudulent activity.

Conclusion:

To help prevent these issues, Messente has implemented a number of safeguards. First, the service checks a customer’s phone capability in the background before and alongside the message being sent. It also uses unreadable, irreversible authenticity codes to carry out verification and ensures that Google doesn’t read the content of your message. This ensures that your verification message looks legitimate to your end user and helps build trust.