MTN Nigeria has picked European digital security company, Gemalto to deliver SIM-based second factor mobile authentication for all its users. It’s called LinqUs Mobile ID, and it will be operated in Software-as-a-Service mode, by Gemalto Allynis Services.
MTN is calling it MTN Token, and it marks the first commercial rollout of SIM-based mobile authentication in Nigeria. It can be used to access secure web services, payments, financial transaction validation amongst others.
“With the launch of MTN Token, we are the first private provider of secure online identity and positioned as a warrant of digital ID and authentication in Nigeria,” said A’isha Umar Mumuni, General Manager, Products & Innovation, at MTN Nigeria.
When using MTN token for eCommerce, banking, insurance, and other enterprise services, the user’s mobile number is used in place of a traditional username. And depending on the level of protection the service provider requires, the user can simply press OK, or enter a pre-defined PIN code.
MTN Token is open to all service providers in Nigeria, and it promises protection against identity theft, and cybercrime for everyone, without the large infrastructure investment required for customised solutions.
Photo Credit: Dan Mitler via Compfight cc
