The rise in the demand and usage of digital devices also catalyzes various cyber attacks and online phishing activities. The operations of hackers have significantly increased on a global front where accounts protected with passwords are no longer secure. To enhance security standards and safeguard the general audience against such fraudulent activities, mobile operators now issue SMS verification codes.
According to a survey conducted in 2022, it is estimated that close to 25% of companies located in the United States of America incurred losses between 50,000 and 100,000 due to cyber attacks. The governing bodies concerned are now relying on SMS services that go beyond conventional texting.
Individuals can secure transactions and accounts immediately with the assistance of SMS verification codes. Here are some of the foremost reasons why SMS verification is preferred as a standard security measure:
- SMS verification makes it difficult for hackers to track as a new code is generated every time a transaction is initiated.
- Each verification code is paired with a validity timeline and proves to be invalid when the timeline expires.
- SMS services are relatively inexpensive, making it a cost-effective security option.
Join us as we unearth and address some of the most fundamental queries regarding the concept of SMS verification codes.
Table of Contents
What is an SMS Verification Code?
The additional SMS verification benefit is initiated through text messages. Short Messaging Services or SMS is an essential communication tool through which smartphone users can interact and share information with the assistance of messaging. SMS verification is an essential security measure that allows financial institutions, applications, and websites to reconfirm the identity of the final user.
Various platforms require individuals to input email addresses, passwords, and a unique SMS verification code to grant complete access to an existing account. A verification code is generated and sent to the registered phone number of the user concerned.
Relevant terms such as One-Time-Password, Two-Factor Authentication, and SMS Authentication are also used to define the SMS verification process. The process is user-friendly and endorsed by the general users worldwide. Moreover, offering SMS verification is inexpensive, making it difficult to be overlooked.
Interesting Read: Mobile Communication Simplified: What Does it Mean Call is Waiting?
How Does SMS Verification Work and Is It Secure?
The process of SMS verification is straightforward. Various service providers and online platforms require customers to provide a registered phone number during the sign-up stage. Users are then requested to share their email address credentials along with assigning a password to the dedicated page.
This information is then used by the online platform concerned to reconfirm the account holder’s identity through a unique SMS-generated code. Users will only be able to gain complete access to the page when the correct SMS verification code is inserted.
SMS verification is relatively secure. However, users must ensure that the SMS code generated is kept a secret throughout. Accessing the unique code must be done in private so that it remains protected from prying eyes. The only legitimate drawback to this security measure is the lack of end-to-end encryption features of an SMS.
Text messages shared can be accessed by third-party users which also includes your carrier service provider. Mobile operators around the world uphold relevant ethical standards ensuring that the information shared via text messages is not retrieved. However, the technical possibility of hacking SMS information continues to pertain.
Why is SMS Verification So Important?
We presently live in a digital age that is heavily dependent on internet usage and consequent wireless devices. The fundamental security standards of an email address and password gained tremendous success at its initial stage.
However, with the advancement in the field of technology, hackers and cybercriminals have unlocked new methods to breach such basic security protocols. As a result, various online platforms were compelled to employ a more robust password standard through the usage of special symbols and characters such as @, #, $, &, *, etc.
A combination of upper cases, unique characters, and numbers offered additional security support. However, this system was also evidently breached by skilled hackers resulting in the loss of data and money in the long run. Therefore, an additional security layer was introduced where a unique one-time password would be issued through email to effectively validate user identity.
Nonetheless, this approach was soon shifted to primarily mobile numbers as an email address can be accessed by multiple users. The affordable and easy access to mobile phones made SMS verification the most convenient security option.
Pros and Cons of SMS Verification
Let us now highlight the most noteworthy pros and cons of the SMS verification process to gain a more detailed understanding of the concept.
A. Pros of SMS Verification Code
- The security procedures act as an additional filter ensuring effective data privacy.
- SMS verification is a straightforward and user-friendly process that every smartphone user is familiar with.
- The process is cost-effective and targets the majority of mobile users.
- Mitigates the activities of bots and fake users.
- It allows businesses to verify their professional identity.
B. Cons of SMS Verification Code
- The process does not entirely eliminate the potential of cyberattacks.
- SMS is not end-to-end encrypted, making it susceptible to cyberattacks.
- SIM card swapping is a prevailing issue that acts as a hurdle for SMS verification.
- The compatibility between software solutions and hardware devices is not in-sync. For instance, users who have lost or misplaced their mobile devices will not be able to access the SMS verification code for validation.
Industries Where SMS Verification is Widely Used
The benefits offered by SMS verification codes certainly outweigh the limitations. This is the precise reason why the security technique is incorporated in various industries.
A. The Finance Sector
SMS verification gained a lot of popularity within the financial domain as banking institutions and service providers depend on OTP SMS to successfully authenticate and fulfill registrations, logins, and transactions. Individuals around the world can send and receive money with complete convenience with the assistance of this basic security protocol.
Banking customers receive an SMS verification code while attempting to register or log in to an online account. The OTP credential shared serves as a medium through which the account holder’s identity is verified, in turn, minimizing the chances of fraudulent transactions.
B. The Insurance Sector
A large number of people prioritize investment through insurance policies. These effective financial schemes allow individuals to attain additional benefits during emergencies. Thus, an additional filter of SMS verification safeguards insurance customers from scammers. The overall process of registration, premium payment, policy charges, payment verification, etc. is streamlined.
C. The Corporate Sector
SMS serves as a formidable marketing tool that is adopted by numerous competitive businesses. SMS verification influences the development of safety standards, streamlines communication with customers, and enhances security. The sheer versatility of the SMS verification process makes it compatible with diverse industrial landscapes.
Alternatives to SMS Verification
There are various alternatives to SMS verification offering additional security to end users. SMS verification proves to be an effective measure, however, the process is also paired with various vulnerabilities to SIM swapping and phishing. Consider the following alternative solutions to elevate security standards:
A. Using WhatsApp OTP
WhatsApp is presently one of the most preferred and popular messaging applications catering to the needs of more than 2 billion global smartphone users. WhatsApp ensures that the messages shared on the platform are accessed only by the sender and the receiver by incorporating end-to-end encryption. This feature assists in preventing complications related to trojan attacks and frauds.
With the assistance of WhatsApp OTP and Login by WhatsApp individuals and business organizations can streamline email marketing through distinct drip campaigns. The overall conversion rates also receive a boost as WhatsApp offers a higher reply and open rate.
B. Using Google and Microsoft Authenticators
Relying on renowned external authenticators by Google and Microsoft certainly resolves security concerns. These applications are available for Android and iOS where one-time codes are generated that are acknowledged as secondary verification. These applications are functional even when the user is offline, making them immune to SIM swapping and phishing activities.
C. Using Biometric Authentication
Biometric Authentication is considered to be the most secure user identity verification process. The authentication procedure relies on using an individual’s unique physical attributes in the form of facial recognition and fingerprints. With the assistance of Touch ID, Apple Face ID, and Samsung Iris Scanner, Biometric Authentication eliminates the need to remember any password or verification codes.
Related Blog: Unlock Phone with PUK Code – A Complete Guide!
How to Choose the Best SMS Verification Service?
There are multiple SMS verification platforms available in the market offering top-tier services. Be sure to consider the following factors to choose the best SMS verification service that complements your long-term business goals:
A. Efficient and Reliable Delivery
Verification codes are time-sensitive and are conventionally valid for around 60 seconds. Thus, an SMS verification service provides must offer efficient and reliable delivery. Businesses sending thousands of SMS 2FA verification codes to final customers must ensure to collaborate with a service provider that can meet the present requirement without compromising on the delivery speed.
B. Enhanced Security
SMS verification codes must be shared within a secured environment. Failing to comply with the required security standards gives cyber attackers the opportunity to intercept SMS texts and utilize the codes to hack consumer accounts. Be sure to collaborate with an SMS verification service provider that incorporates the SOC 2-compliant standard.
C. Additional Customer Support
Additional customer support assistance should be provided throughout to effectively address immediate issues. Moreover, the SMS verification service provider must also ensure to provide assistance through alternative channels such as emails, TOTP, etc.
Conclusion
These were some of the foremost aspects concerning SMS verification codes that allow individuals to maintain a balance between security and fraud within the digital sphere. Be sure to conduct thorough online research to identify and collaborate with premium SMS verification service providers to safeguard your business from cyber-attacks.
