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One-time passwords marked ‘Likely-SCAM’ could breed complacency

Yong Jun Yuan

Yong Jun Yuan

Published Mon, Feb 6, 2023 · 08:58 PM
    • Using SMSes is weak as an authentication factor, and users should be prepared to accept some inconveniences in exchange for stronger protections for their online accounts.
    • Using SMSes is weak as an authentication factor, and users should be prepared to accept some inconveniences in exchange for stronger protections for their online accounts. PHOTO: BT FILE

    THE recent rollout of an SMS scam prevention initiative has hit some snags, with legitimate messages being marked as likely scams.

    At best, these temporary problems will be ironed out; and the public will enjoy several months of scam-free messages before new loopholes are found and exploited.

    At worst, the initiative could breed complacency. There is some urgency, therefore, to find better ways to communicate and to secure accounts against fraudulent use.

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