A Guide to Sending OTPs on WhatsApp

One-time passwords (OTPs) are a useful tool for many businesses today. These codes are sent to consumers’ registered mobile numbers for authentication and verification. They serve as a security measure to protect accounts and prevent fraud.

 Many OTPs are sent over WhatsApp. It has become a preferred communication channel. At present, India has the most WhatsApp users in the world, and it is estimated that WhatsApp’s user base in India will reach 795.67 million by 2025. 

 Businesses can use the WhatsApp Business API or Airtel’s network-embedded Hyperlocal Marketing solution to send OTPs securely. It is a convenient and reliable method, with benefits for both companies and consumers.

Differences between SMS OTP and WhatsApp OTP

 When it comes to WhatsApp OTP vs SMS OTP, there are key differences between the two methods.

 SMS OTPs are sent over a cellular network. This network can be vulnerable to interception and other attacks. WhatsApp OTPs are sent over the internet and are end-to-end encrypted. Only the sender and receiver can see the messages.

 Another difference between SMS OTPs and WhatsApp OTPs is convenience. SMS OTPs can be sent to any phone number, even if the user does not have WhatsApp installed. However, WhatsApp OTPs can only be sent to users who have WhatsApp installed. 

There are other features unique to WhatsApp OTPs that are not available on SMS. For example, rich media content, such as images and videos. This feature is useful for businesses that want to send personalised OTP messages to their customers. 

Why Should You Use WhatsApp to Send OTPs?

Using WhatsApp for OTPs offers several advantages. These make it an ideal choice for businesses looking to enhance security, user experience, and brand engagement.

Security and Authentication

WhatsApp provides a secure channel for sending OTPs with robust user authentication and transaction verification processes. The platform employs end-to-end encryption, ensuring that sensitive information is transmitted securely between the business and the user.

Widespread User Adoption

With over 2 billion monthly active users globally, WhatsApp is widely adopted. Most smartphone users already have the app installed, streamlining the process of delivering OTPs. Leveraging a platform that users are familiar with enhances the chances of successful OTP delivery and user engagement.

Global Reach

WhatsApp’s availability in over 200 countries makes it an excellent choice for businesses with a diverse customer base. Whether a company operates locally or internationally, WhatsApp offers a consistent and reliable means of delivering OTPs to customers across borders.

Interactivity and Personalisation

Compared to traditional SMS, WhatsApp provides a more interactive platform. Businesses can send personalised OTP messages, making the user experience more engaging. This interactivity can be leveraged to provide additional information, instructions or promotions along with the OTP. It creates a more dynamic and user-friendly authentication process.

Brand Promotion and Loyalty

WhatsApp OTP messages offer an opportunity for brand promotion and customer loyalty building. Businesses can incorporate their logo and branding colours into OTP messages. It adds a professional touch and serves as a reminder of the brand. This feature can create a stronger connection with customers.

Rich Media Support

WhatsApp supports various media types. It allows businesses to enhance OTP messages with images, videos or links. This flexibility enables creative and informative content delivery to make the authentication process more engaging and memorable for users.

Two-Way Communication

Unlike traditional OTP delivery methods, WhatsApp chatbot allows for two-way communication. Users can reply to OTP messages or initiate a conversation, providing a direct channel for customer support or additional information. It fosters accessibility and responsiveness, contributing to an overall positive user experience.

How to Send OTPs Via WhatsApp

The following steps are required for businesses to send OTPs on WhatsApp.

First, businesses need to set up a business ID on Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company. They also need a dedicated phone number associated with their whatsapp corporate account. This phone number should be only used for business communications on WhatsApp.

Businesses should come up with templates and a user-friendly flow with clear instructions for consumers. The templates should be created and configured according to WhatsApp’s guidelines and policies.

Registering for WhatsApp business API involves creating a business profile and verifying the necessary credentials and phone numbers. Once the business is approved for WhatsApp API, it can integrate it with a CRM to send automated OTPs.

Businesses can also send OTPs through a shared number. Airtel IQ offers this convenient option. Businesses can send a specified number of OTPs through this number and also avail of other features such as analytics and conversational bots.

Benefits of WhatsApp OTP Verification Codes

There are several benefits of WhatsApp OTP for businesses.

Security

WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption. This encryption means that only the sender and receiver can see messages and OTPs. With WhatsApp, there is a reduced risk of interception by unauthorised third parties.

Convenience

WhatsApp is a convenient platform for users. Most people already have the app installed on their phones. They do not have to download or install a separate app for receiving OTPs.

Global Reach

WhatsApp is available in over 200 countries and territories. It is a good choice for businesses that have global customers. Sending OTPs on WhatsApp also offers advantages to businesses and consumers in different industries.

For businesses, sending OTPs on WhatsApp can improve the customer experience by making it easier and faster to authenticate and verify transactions. Furthermore, sending OTPs on WhatsApp can help to increase customer engagement by providing a personalised and convenient experience.

For consumers, there is a layer of security because of WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption. The filtering and phishing detection features can protect users from spam and phishing attacks. Receiving OTPs on WhatsApp is more convenient than receiving them via SMS. WhatsApp is often the preferred messaging app for many people.

Overall, sending OTPs on WhatsApp offers several benefits for both businesses and consumers across sectors. Financial institutions, online retail, online gaming companies and others can use it for transactions and authentication. To find out more about why should you use WhatsApp OTP, get in touch with Airtel Business today.