WhatsApp OTP for instant verification process

The verification process is an important part of business. Verification can ensure that both the customer and the business are carrying out the transaction safely. To help the verification process, businesses can implement Whatsapp OTP (One Time Password).

Here is a guide on WhatsApp OTP:

What is OTP (One Time Password)?

A One-Time Password, or OTP, is a unique code generated by a separate device or service, typically a mobile app. It is used as a security measure to authenticate a user's identity and prevent unauthorised access to sensitive information or systems.

OTP is increasingly common in online banking, eCommerce, and other applications where security is critical. Normally, these passwords are sent via SMS or, in some cases, email. Nowadays, companies have found a way to incorporate WhatsApp as an app in which their users can receive their OTP.

How to use WhatsApp OTP? 

With the use of the WhatsApp Business Platform, companies can now have communication with their customers that is both secure and convenient in both directions. This method requires the user to have a WhatsApp account linked to their phone number, and the OTP is sent to the WhatsApp account instead of the conventional SMS or email.

To utilise WhatsApp for instant OTP authentication, the user first starts the login process on the relevant application or website, which triggers a request to be sent to their registered phone number. The user subsequently receives a notification via WhatsApp that includes the necessary OTP code to finalise the login process. This not only applies to account registration but other aspects as well such as account recovery and validation of integrity.

To help you better understand WhatsApp OTP, here's a quick guide on how to implement WhatsApp OTP in your business:

1. Verify WhatsApp Business Account

Before you can use WhatsApp OTP, ensure that your business has a verified WhatsApp Business Account. This involves confirming your WhatsApp phone number and business details with WhatsApp. Follow WhatsApp's guidelines for business verification.

2. Create Facebook Business Manager Account

Now that you have a WhatsApp business account, you need to create a Facebook Business Manager account.

Log into your Facebook account then log into Facebook Business Manager (https://business.facebook.com/) and connect to your WhatsApp Business Account.

3. Use WhatsApp API

WhatsApp OTP is typically integrated using the WhatsApp Business API. This API allows you to send automated messages, including OTP, to users. To access the WhatsApp Business API, you'll need to apply for and be approved by WhatsApp. Follow WhatsApp's guidelines and requirements for API access.

4. Send Test OTP Messages

Thoroughly test the OTP generation and delivery process. Verify that users receive OTP promptly and can use them effectively. Test for various scenarios, including user errors and edge cases.

5. Verify the OTP

After the user enters the OTP received, use the WhatsApp API to verify it. If the code received is correct, the user can proceed to the next stage.

If it is incorrect, display an error message and direct the user to try again.

By following these steps and maintaining a focus on security, privacy, and user experience, your business can effectively utilise WhatsApp OTP for various purposes, from user authentication to transaction verification, while ensuring a secure and seamless customer journey.

WhatsApp OTP use case examples

WhatsApp One-Time Passwords (OTP) can be used in various business cases to enhance security, authentication, and communication. Here are several example scenarios where WhatsApp OTP can be employed:

1. Account Verification

Businesses can use WhatsApp OTP to verify user accounts during the registration process. Users receive a one-time code via WhatsApp to confirm their identity, ensuring that only authorised individuals can access their accounts.

2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Implementing WhatsApp OTP as part of a two-factor authentication process adds an extra layer of security to user logins. After entering their username and password, users receive an OTP on WhatsApp, which they must input to gain access to their accounts.

3. Password Reset

When users forget their passwords, businesses can send them a WhatsApp OTP to verify their identity before allowing them to reset their passwords. This prevents unauthorised access to accounts during the password recovery process.

4. Transaction Confirmation

For financial institutions and e-commerce platforms, WhatsApp OTP can be used to confirm high-value transactions. Users receive an OTP to verify and approve significant financial actions, adding an extra level of security for sensitive transactions.

5. Identity Verification for Customer Support

Customer support representatives can request users to provide a WhatsApp OTP to verify their identity before discussing account-specific or confidential information. This ensures data privacy and protects against unauthorised access.

6. Appointment and Reservation Confirmation

Service-based businesses, such as healthcare providers and restaurants, can send OTP to customers via WhatsApp to confirm appointments, reservations, or bookings. This reduces the likelihood of no-shows and enhances operational efficiency.

7. Access to Secure Documents or Content

Companies can use WhatsApp OTP to grant access to secure documents, exclusive content, or premium features within their applications or websites. This ensures that only authorised users can access restricted resources.

8. Reward Redemption

Loyalty programs and promotions can use WhatsApp OTP to validate the redemption of rewards or discounts. Users must enter a valid OTP to claim their rewards, reducing the risk of fraudulent redemptions.

9. Event Registration

Event organisers can employ WhatsApp OTP to confirm registrations and ticket purchases for conferences, webinars, or workshops. Attendees receive an OTP as their verification code to validate their participation.

10. Secure File Sharing

Businesses sharing confidential documents or files with clients or partners can use WhatsApp OTP to grant access. The OTP ensures that only authorised individuals can view or download the files.

WhatsApp OTP provides a secure and user-friendly method of authentication and verification across various business scenarios, improving security, user trust, and the overall customer experience.

How WhatsApp OTP differ from Traditional SMS OTP

WhatsApp OTP and SMS OTP (One-Time Password) are both methods of authentication and verification, but they differ in several key ways:

1. Delivery Channel

The most fundamental difference is the channel used for delivery. WhatsApp OTP is delivered via WhatsApp messages while SMS OTP is sent through traditional text messages. WhatsApp OTP leverages a popular messaging app, whereas SMS OTP relies on the mobile network's SMS infrastructure.

2. International Reach

WhatsApp OTP relies on internet connectivity, which makes it accessible to users with a data connection, regardless of their location. SMS OTP, while widely available, may face challenges with international SMS delivery and potential delays in certain regions.

3. Reliability and Delivery Rates

SMS OTP generally has higher delivery rates and reliability compared to WhatsApp OTP. SMS messages have a better chance of reaching users, even in areas with poor internet connectivity. WhatsApp messages may not be delivered if the user's phone is offline or if they have opted out of receiving messages from unknown contacts.

4. Integration

Integrating WhatsApp OTP typically requires using the WhatsApp Business API or third-party services, which may involve a more complex setup. SMS OTP integration can be simpler and is often supported directly by mobile carriers or SMS gateway providers.

In summary, WhatsApp OTP and SMS OTP serve similar purposes but differ in terms of the delivery channel, international reach, reliability, and integration methods. Businesses should consider their specific needs and audience preferences when choosing between these two authentication methods.

Benefits of using WhatsApp for instant OTP authentication 

Using WhatsApp for instant OTP authentication provides several benefits over receiving OTP via SMS or email: 

1. Enhanced security  

One of the primary benefits of using WhatsApp-based OTP is the enhanced security it provides. WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption to protect messages sent between users. This means that the message is encrypted on the sender's device and can only be decrypted on the recipient's device, making it more difficult for third parties to intercept or access the OTP code. SMS and email-based OTP codes, on the other hand, are sent in plain text and can be intercepted or read by third parties. 

2. Convenience 

WhatsApp-based OTP is more convenient for users because it eliminates the need to have access to their SMS or email account to receive the OTP code. This can be particularly useful when travelling, as the user may not have access to their phone network or email. With WhatsApp-based OTP, if the user has access to the internet, they can receive the OTP code through their WhatsApp account.

Switching to WhatsApp for instant OTP authentication 

Using WhatsApp for OTP authentication offers more enhanced features compared to traditional methods such as SMS or email. With end-to-end encryption, real-time delivery, and easy accessibility through the WhatsApp app, users can feel more secure and confident in their online transactions. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative and secure ways of authentication that prioritise the user's experience and security.