How SMS Verification Works | Syniverse (2024)

Using SMS to verify and authorize users is one way to fortify account security. With this process, you can ensure only legitimate users gain access to your business platform. No more worrying about fake accounts or unauthorized access. Let’s explore how SMS verification works and how it can help your business.

What is an SMS Verification?

SMS verification is a safety protocol that confirms the identity of someone trying to use a service or complete a transaction. Online SMS verification sends a text message with a unique code, usually a number, to the user’s mobile number.

The user must input this code into the service’s verification section to confirm their legitate access as user and finish the SMS verification process. It is impossible to get an SMS verification code without a phone number.

Common Use Cases for SMS Verification

Companies use SMS to verify customer accounts to bolster security, refine user experience, and safeguard transaction authenticity. Here are some common use cases for SMS verification:

• Account setup and registration: Use SMS to confirm the user’s legitimate access and validate phone numbers to reduce fake accounts and spam registrations.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra security layer to the login process beyond a username and password to protect user accounts from unauthorized access.
• Password resets and account recovery: Send an SMS to verify user’s legitimate access or password reset and account recovery to prevent unauthorized access.
• Authorize transactions: Confirm high-risk transactions or account changes securely.
• Delivery and order confirmations: E-commerce platforms and delivery services use notifications to confirm orders and delivery schedules and update customers.

What Businesses Should Consider SMS Verification

Businesses across numerous industries can use SMS to verify user’s legitimate access to bolster security, elevate customer experience, and guarantee transaction integrity. It allows businesses to safeguard customers while maintaining the credibility of their services. These are some examples:

• Financial services and banking: Financial institutions utilize SMS verification for secure online banking, including two-factor authentication, transaction verification, and fraud prevention.
• E-commerce and retail: Retailers can utilize SMS to verify order confirmations, delivery notifications, password resets, and account/payment information changes.
• Healthcare: Medical practices use SMS verification to secure patient access to online health records.
• Hospitality: Airlines, hotels, and booking services use SMS to verify booking confirmations and check-in notifications and to secure account changes or password resets.
• Utilities and service providers: Telecoms, energy providers, and others rely on SMS verification for account setup, billing notifications, and authorizing service changes.

What are the Common Ways to Deliver SMS Verification?

There are several ways to execute SMS verification, each involving a unique type. These types include:

1. Short Codes

2. Long Codes

• Long codes are regular phone numbers used for P2P and smaller-scale A2P messaging.
• It can be used for international messaging more easily than short codes.
• It’s not suitable for high-volume messaging because of lower sending rates.

3. 10DLC (10 Digit Long Codes)

• 10DLCs are 10-digit local phone numbers for business A2P messaging.
• Ideal for a segmented customer base, smaller in size, and localized within a branch or a store.
• No branding or customization of the number.

4. TFN (Toll-Free Number)

• Toll-Free Numbers are phone numbers that can be called at no cost to the caller.
• They can be used for voice and SMS.
• Nationwide coverage with a single number enhances brand image.
• It’s cost-effective for customers because calling or texting is free.
• The moderate throughput is ideal for businesses with moderate messaging volumes.

Do you need help determining which SMS verification type fits your business best? The experienced Syniverse sales team is here to provide a free consultation and help you find the perfect solution.

Important Rules for Getting the Right SMS Verification Service

Choosing the best provider can be tricky, but here are some guidelines to follow:

• Don’t let cost be your sole deciding factor. Your SMS messaging service must be trustworthy and high-quality, as these codes are typically used to protect sensitive information.
• Your customers are counting on instant code delivery, so any delay could spell trouble. Ensuring that your provider can handle large-scale and dependable deliveries is crucial.
• If you’re a global brand aiming to send SMS verification codes across various countries, or if you’re operating in a sector with numerous compliance requirements, then this is something you should consider.

Ensure that your service provider possesses the necessary expertise and has a competent team ready to navigate you through these subjects.

Reliably Connect with Your Customers

Syniverse is a global leader in business messaging, capable of providing swift, secure, and scalable SMS verification services.

Trust us to handle your messaging needs with expert precision. We have a skilled team to assist with implementation, provide guidance on best use cases, clarify SLA and various rules, or address any particular issues that may arise in local regions.

Upgrade Your Business With Our Mobile Messaging Solutions!

Lead Manager of Solutions Engineering, Rick Carlson oversees a team of Solutions Engineers providing global enterprise solutions to customers based in the Americas. Since first joining Syniverse, in 2013, Rick has worked consistently in the Solutions Engineering team initially as a Sr. Solutions Engineer working with enterprises and mobile operators alike, then as a Principal Solutions Engineer focusing on the Syniverse Enterprise messaging solutions and working with some of the largest enterprises in the world. Rick has been in the mobile industry for 30 years, starting with a 15-year career at AT&T, ranging from front line customer service roles, product marketing, customer and business retention management, and mobile network operator relations. Rick resides in North Georgia USA, and he holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Morehead State University in Kentucky.