SINGAPORE — Consumers frustrated with multiple usernames and passwords for their many online accounts could soon have an option to log into their various accounts using just their mobile phone number.
M1, Singtel and StarHub are jointly building a platform that uses a mobile-based authentication standard that will allow customers to confirm their identity at participating websites using their mobile phone. For online transactions that require greater levels of security, users will have a unique personal code.
The telcos are looking to offer this service in areas such as telecommunications, banking, e-commerce, entertainment, government and travel services and applications, according to a joint statement issued on Tuesday (Nov 29). M1, Singtel and StarHub expect to announce the first wave of supported online services in the second half of 2017.
The platform being built by the telcos uses GSMA’s Mobile Connect authentication standard, and integrates with online service providers through a common Mobile Connect Application Programme Interface (API). GSMA is a trade body that represents the interests of mobile operators worldwide.
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Users can register for the Mobile Connect service at no charge, with their mobile phone number. When on the cellular network, users log in just by clicking on the Mobile Connect logo on the website or application, and verification is done automatically. When users are on Wi-Fi or using a computer, they will have to log in by keying in their mobile phone number.
The telcos’ joint statement said no information will be made available to online service providers without users’ permission. Information transfers between users, service providers and telcos will also be encrypted.
According to statistics by the Info-communications Media Development Authority of Singapore, there were close to 8.4 million mobile subscriptions in Singapore in August.
Mobile Connect is currently available in 22 countries, such as Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. In India, where it was launched in July, the service is used across industries including commerce, finance and banking, health services, media and entertainment and travel and hospitality.
