User Authentication
Verify users and protect accounts with two-factor authentication
How two-factor authentication works to verify mobile users
SMS two-factor authentication (2FA) is one of the most effective ways to verify users; it can be easily added as an extra layer of security in business applications.
The user submits a request for verification, then your server makes contact with Messente’s API and transmits the user that requires 2FA verification.
The user receives a unique one-time verification code by text via Messente’s systems. This is sent and received more or less instantly.
Your server uses the API to send the inputted code back to Messente for verification. If it matches the original code, user verification is completed.
Benefits of two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Increases trust
Many are concerned about data security, more so since the GDPR was introduced, and in light of the significant data breaches that have made the headlines in recent years. 2FA adds an extra layer of security to accounts. This helps to reassure customers that keeping data secure is a top priority for your business. - Supports GDPR legislation
The GDPR requires that businesses process personal data securely using appropriate technical and organisational measures. One such technical measure is 2FA. - Smooth, fast log-in experience
2FA is a virtually immediate verification process. Messente works with a wide network of global operators for access to premium SMS routes. This ensures the customer receives their unique OTP straightaway, so there’s no delay in logging into your app. - Fully automated
Through Messente’s API, OTPs are generated and sent automatically. You can focus on other areas of your business, safe in the knowledge that user verification is continually happening in the background, keeping data secure.
FAQ
Is SMS two-factor authentication secure?
No security measure is 100% failsafe, and this applies to SMS 2FA too. App-based 2FA is more secure than SMS 2FA, but the latter is much better than having no authentication measures in place at all.
Not using 2FA is actually quite common - for instance, 90% of Gmail users don’t have 2FA set up. If you do use 2FA, this will make hacking into your systems more difficult.
What is an SMS OTP and how does it work?
OTP stands for one-time password. It’s a unique PIN code, generated by Messente’s Two-Factor Verification API and is sent to a user’s phone number, for them to input into your app or website. It’s time-sensitive, so if the code isn’t entered after a short amount of time, it expires, and can no longer be used. An SMS OTP just means that the PIN code is sent by text message.
Lots of businesses, including large enterprises like banks and financial services providers, use SMS OTPs to help prevent fraud and keep customer accounts secure.
How secure are my payment details?
The first step is to integrate Messente’s Two-Factor Verification API into your application. Then use our API documentation which contains all the instructions you need to configure the setup. You may need the help of a junior developer to integrate the API; it can be done in just a few days.