Description: SMS authentication is a method of identity verification that uses text messages to send a unique code to a user. This code, which typically has a limited duration, must be entered by the user to complete the authentication process. This approach is considered part of multifactor authentication, as it combines something the user knows (like a password) with something the user has (the mobile phone). SMS authentication is valued for its ease of use and accessibility, as most people have access to a mobile phone and can receive text messages. However, it also presents certain vulnerabilities, such as the risk of message interception or identity spoofing attacks. Despite these concerns, it remains a popular option for enhancing security across various platforms, providing an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access.
History: SMS authentication began to gain popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s, coinciding with the rise of mobile phone usage. In the early 2000s, the security industry began adopting this method as a form of multifactor authentication, especially in the financial and e-commerce sectors. As concerns about online security grew, SMS authentication became a common solution for protecting user accounts and transactions.
Uses: SMS authentication is primarily used in online services that require an additional level of security, such as banks, e-commerce platforms, social networks, and messaging applications. It is also employed in new account verification, password recovery, and in authentication processes for financial transactions.
Examples: An example of SMS authentication is when a user attempts to log into their online banking account and receives a verification code on their mobile phone that must be entered to complete the access. Another example is the password recovery process on various platforms, where a code is sent via SMS to verify the user’s identity.
