WhatsApp OTP: Introducing Meta’s Special Feature

For verification, resets, or authentication, robust security is essential.

Protecting data and maintaining trust are crucial for your business.

While many verification processes are known for being unnecessarily long and inconvenient, one-time passwords offer just as much security—but often at the click of a button. 

For quite some time, SMS has been the standard for OTP verification.

But this reign could very well come to an end with the advent of WhatsApp OTP codes.

This new feature by Meta is believed to be a reliable way to authenticate online activity.

And with the introduction of the Meta WhatsApp Cloud API, this app could very well become the norm for business texting sooner than expected. 

What is WhatsApp OTP?

WhatsApp One-Time Password (OTP) is a system of authentication that uses the messaging solution to send a unique, temporary code known as an OTP.

The code is sent to a user's registered phone number, and the user is required to enter it to verify their identity and proceed with transactions or logins.

This method leverages the security and widespread use of the app to provide a seamless and safe authentication process.

Why Use WhatsApp OTP?

There are several reasons to make use of one-time password authentication via WhatsApp.

These include but are not limited to, the platform's end-to-end encryption, high delivery rates, cost-effectiveness, and excellent user experience. 

End-to-End Encryption

WhatsApp messages, including OTPs, come with end-to-end encryption.

This means that only the intended recipient can read the message.

The security text displayed at the top of every chat clearly informs users that the messages they receive are fully encrypted every step of the way.

Cost-Effective

Sending OTPs on the app is more cost-effective than traditional SMS codes, particularly for businesses that have customers abroad.

Using the WhatsApp API also gives you access to 1,000 free messages per month.

This makes the channel especially perfect for businesses that have a small audience; the application becomes virtually free to use. 

High Delivery Rates

Sending a one-time password requires the recipient to have access to a cellular signal.

This may not always be possible for those in areas with poor coverage.

Unlike SMS, WhatsApp messages have a near 100% delivery rate—through either Wi-Fi or mobile data.

It’s also worth noting that using WhatsApp to send OTPs doesn’t involve the possibility of having to deal with multiple carriers. 

High Level of Trust

There’s no denying that SMS is a great communication channel to work with.

But it’s not always easy to tell whether a text message is from a credible source or not.

And while having a sender ID with your brand name can prove authenticity, many recipients may still not fully trust it.

On the other hand, WhatsApp only allows you to send messages using the API after it verifies your business.

This means the recipient can guarantee that any one-time password they receive is credible. 

Reliable Fallback

As widespread as the app is, there are still people who don’t use the app or don’t open messages.

That’s where SMS comes in handy as a fallback.

Should the recipient not be able to receive the message for whatever reason, the code goes through via SMS instead.

Option to Block

While many SMS messages give you the chance to opt out, that option is not always available.

WhatsApp, however, allow users to block a contact that sends unsolicited messages.

This makes it ideal for reaching out to your audiences with their guaranteed permission, whether it’s for sending verification codes, marketing messages, or any other form of business communication.  

OTP WhatsApp Vs. SMS

While SMS has traditionally been the standard for sending OTPs, WhatsApp offers significant advantages:

• Customization: WhatsApp allows for customizable OTP messages with branded elements, enhancing user trust and recognition.
• Multi-Device Support: WhatsApp OTPs can be accessed across multiple devices, increasing convenience for users.
• Delivery Confirmation: WhatsApp provides delivery and read receipts, ensuring OTPs have been received and seen.

How to Start Sending OTP with WhatsApp API

To begin sending one-time codes, you will need a WhatsApp Business account and access to the API.

The entire process is fairly straightforward.

Here’s a quick rundown of how to get started with setting up and sending them: 

1. Create a Business Account 

Fill in your business details in the form provided by your business messaging service.

Once you enter all the required information, simply wait for the app to verify your business

2. Set up Facebook Business Manager 

Log into your Facebook account and access the Facebook Business Manager.

Under 'Business Settings', select 'Accounts' and then 'WhatsApp Accounts'. Add your business account.

3. Generate and Send the OTP

Use the WhatsApp API to generate a code and send it to the user's number.

4. Verify the OTP

Once the user enters the received OTP, use the API to verify it.

If the code is valid, the user can proceed.

If not, display an error message and prompt the user to try again.

How to Send a Code With Dexatel

The feature is a part of Dexatel's Verify API, which includes WhatsApp, SMS, and Viber channels for user verification.

Detailed documentation is available to guide you through the implementation process.

1. You’ll need to create an account on Dexatel and fill in the form stating that you want to use the ap

2. The system will monitor that information and verify it with Meta

3. You’ll get a profile with a verified badge and you’ll be able to send messages 

4. Using the WhatsApp Business API, you can automate texts and set triggers based on use cases

5. The pricing is based on delivery status. That is to say, if the recipient doesn’t have WhatsApp or an internet connection, the message will not be charged