How to use Rakuten Viber as an OTP channel

Security and data protection are among the top priorities for any business today - and a dealbreaker for most customers. In fact, 68% of consumers globally are either somewhat or very concerned about their privacy online.

Without efficient and effective security solutions, businesses are at risk of costly data breaches and leaks. While customers risk being exposed to identity theft and compromised accounts.

That’s why Rakuten Viber has recently introduced a new verification message option - to help businesses build secure, trustworthy interactions with their customers.

Read on to learn what Viber Verification Messages are, how brands can use them, and the benefits of sending these message types on one of the most secure super apps globally.

What are Viber Verification Messages (OTP)?

Viber Verification Messages are business messages that enable brands to authenticate customers by sending them a one-time password (OTP). 

To help simplify the authentication process, we’ve created verification message templates in 33 languages that enable brands to send one-time passwords in seconds. And customers can complete the process just as fast.

Powered by high-security solutions on the backend, brands can use Rakuten Viber’s templates to simplify onboarding, shopping, and banking processes in a single app, while keeping all personal information safe. All they have to do is fill in text and numbers in the template and language of their choice.

In essence, using Rakuten Viber to send one-time passwords helps brands set up an uninterrupted, secure authentication process with pre-approved localized templates that increase efficiency, security, and conversions.

Viber vs traditional SMS verification: What’s the difference?

When it comes to authentication solutions, traditional SMS has made a name for itself in the one-time password space. However, as practical as SMS is, it lacks the key features Rakuten Viber offers to turn basic security transactions into a seamless branded experience.

Fast and simple authentication

Initially, customers would receive a plain text message with their one-time password, which they would need to remember or struggle to copy and paste. Now, they can easily copy their password with the click of a button, speeding up the process and minimizing their frustration.

And if you’re wondering how fast is “fast”, Viber Verification Messages can be sent within seconds - a much shorter time-to-live (TTL) than other message types. 

Branded experiences

One-time passwords sent via SMS often arrive in a generic message thread, without a company logo or name. This can raise concern and caution among customers since they can appear as spam at first glance, especially if they are unexpected. 

With a verified and branded Rakuten Viber business account, one-time passwords are received in a verified business chat that is customized with brand elements, such as colors and a logo. This reassures customers that the message is coming from the right business, minimizing hesitation and increasing trust. 

Advanced security options

Using Rakuten Viber, businesses can ensure their sensitive information stays protected through message encryption and sender verification checks. 

Viber SecurePlus Messages, for example, are business messages that unobtrusively check a recipient’s phone number to confirm it’s not flagged for potential fraudulent activity, and only deliver your one-time passwords when the recipient has been verified. Brands can also add on additional layers of security, such as:

• specific user checks
• account activity checks
• account activation/deactivation checks
• device replacement checks

Put simply, an SMS OTP message gets the job done but a Viber Verification Message integrates security into an end-to-end journey in one place.

How Rakuten Viber improves authentication for customers

By using Rakuten Viber, brands can enhance user trust, reduce friction during the authentication process, and improve overall security.

In practice, when a customer initiates the OTP process, they will receive their password as a Viber Business Message delivered to a dedicated Business chat inbox, and will simultaneously receive a push notification in their notification bar or lock screen. 

The message will include a “copy” button which the customer taps to copy the password to their clipboard and paste on the website or in the app. Alternatively, if they don’t want to leave the website or app screen, they can copy and paste the password directly from the push notification.

Both options offer users an easy and convenient way to complete their authentication process, eliminating friction and increasing customer satisfaction.

How to get started with Viber Verification Messages

If you already have a Rakuten Viber business account, the process of sending an OTP message is simple. Once our messaging partner of your choice updates the Rakuten Viber API, you will be able to unlock the verification message features. Reach out to your messaging partner or your Rakuten Viber Account Manager to learn more.

Don’t have a Rakuten Viber business account?

If you want to start using verification message templates but don’t have a Rakuten Viber business account, you can talk to our experts or explore our partner page to get started.

I’m a messaging platform provider, what do I do?

If you’re a messaging platform provider that wants to facilitate the one-time passwords brands send on your platform, simply integrate the latest version of our API and the verification message templates feature will be available to your clients. If you have any questions, please reach out to your dedicated Rakuten Viber Account Manager.