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OTPValidation API Description

OTPValidation API Description

Owned by Alberto Ramos Monaga
Last updated: Mar 24, 2025
3 min read

API Description

The โ€œOne Time Password SMSโ€ API is used to send short-lived one time passwords (OTP) to a phone number via SMS and validate it afterwards, in order to provide a proof of possession of the phone number.

One Time Password SMS API performs real-time checks to verify that the user possessed the device that carries the indicated mobile phone number. It provides a frequent method of verifying possession of the device by delivering an OTP through SMS and validating it afterwards.

One Time Password SMS API is a secure method for providing one-time access to an application or performing a single transaction. One Time Password SMS API is most effective and legitimate for a single transaction, unlike user-generated passwords. It is a secure authentication method where a text containing a unique alphanumeric or numeric code is sent to a mobile number (MSISDN).

The recipient then uses this code or password as an additional layer of security to login to a service, website or app.

Use Cases

  • Online Banking: To authenticate users during login and transactions, ensuring secure access to financial accounts.

  • E-commerce Checkout: To verify customer identity during the checkout process, reducing the risk of fraudulent purchases.

  • Account Registration: To confirm user identity during account creation by sending a verification code to their mobile device.

  • Password Recovery: To securely verify users when they request to reset their passwords, ensuring only the rightful owner can make changes.

  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): To enhance security for sensitive applications by requiring a second verification step via SMS after entering a password.

  • Customer support

Benefits

The One Time Password SMS API has several benefits for the API consumer:

  • Enhanced Security: OTPs provide an additional layer of security beyond passwords, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

  • User Verification: Ensures that the user has access to the registered mobile device, confirming their identity.

  • Fraud Prevention: Helps in preventing fraudulent activities by requiring a unique code for each transaction or login.

  • Ease of Use: Users can easily receive and enter codes via SMS, making the process straightforward.

  • Time-Sensitive: OTPs are typically valid for a short period, minimizing the risk of interception.

  • No Additional Hardware: Users do not need to carry extra devices; they can use their existing mobile phones.

  • Scalability: APIs can handle a large number of requests, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes.

  • Integration Flexibility: Easily integrates with existing systems and applications for seamless user experience.

  • Cost-Effective: Reduces the need for complex authentication systems while providing strong security.

  • User Trust: Increases user confidence in the security of the platform, leading to higher user satisfaction.

  • Operational efficiency for the API customer (cost savings).

API Portfolio: Authentication and Fraud Prevention

SubProject Wiki: Number Verification
(incl. how to meet the team)

API Wiki: One Time Password SMS

API Repository: One Time Password SMS

API Repository Status: Incubating

API Status: Stable

API Version(s) and Release Date(s):

  • v0.5.0 (11.10.2023)

  • v1.0.0 (09.09.2024), Fall24 meta-release

  • v1.1.0 (11.03.2025), Spring25 meta-release

API availability: Information which APIs are available in which country and network, and how to get access can be found on the GSMA public launch status page.

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