Infobip launches SIM-based number verification for operators

Infobip has launched a SIM-based Number Verification product for telecom operators and enterprises, designed to create new authentication revenue for mobile operators.

The product combines network API aggregation with enterprise onboarding to connect mobile network operators with businesses seeking alternatives to one-time passwords. It allows enterprises to use SIM-based checks as a form of passwordless authentication.

Mobile operators have been looking for ways to generate more income from network assets beyond traditional voice and data services. At the same time, enterprises face growing pressure to improve account security while reducing failed logins, message delivery problems and user friction linked to SMS codes.

SIM-based Number Verification uses the SIM and the mobile network as a trusted identity layer. It verifies that the mobile number belongs to the SIM in the device, removing the need for users to enter a one-time password manually.

The approach works across both cellular and Wi-Fi connections. It also supports consent-based and token-based authentication flows, unlike older network verification methods that relied more heavily on mobile data checks.

Operator revenue

The launch reflects a wider push by telecom groups to commercialise network functions through application programming interfaces. By aggregating access to those interfaces, vendors such as Infobip aim to simplify integration for enterprises while giving operators a way to sell identity and authentication services at scale.

Infobip already works with operators in areas including messaging monetisation, fraud prevention, CPaaS, network APIs and enterprise connectivity. The new verification offer builds on those existing operator relationships.

Matija Ražem, Chief Commercial Telecom Officer at Infobip, outlined the company's pitch to operators and business customers.

"Operators already own one of the most trusted assets in digital identity - the SIM and the network authentication process," said Matija Ražem, Chief Commercial Telecom Officer at Infobip.

"Our role is to help operators commercialize that capability faster while giving enterprises a scalable path toward more secure and seamless authentication," he said.

Authentication shift

One-time passwords have been widely used by banks, retailers, digital platforms and public services as a second factor in user authentication. But security specialists and service providers have increasingly highlighted weaknesses including phishing, SIM swap fraud, message interception, delivery delays and poor customer experience when codes do not arrive.

That has encouraged interest in newer methods that rely on device possession, biometrics or network-based identity signals. Infobip is positioning SIM-based Number Verification as one of those options, focusing on operator infrastructure rather than app-based authenticators alone.

Leonardo Silva, Head of B2B Messaging and Open Gateway at Vivo, said authentication now plays a broader role in customer interactions.

"Authentication is becoming a much bigger part of the overall customer experience, not just a security checkpoint," said Leonardo Silva, Head of B2B Messaging and Open Gateway at Vivo.

"SIM-based Number Verification creates an opportunity to reduce friction for users while strengthening trust in mobile authentication. By removing the need for one-time passwords and leveraging the trust already built into the SIM and mobile network, enterprises can deliver more seamless and secure digital experiences at scale," he said.

Infobip describes itself as a global cloud communications platform and says its network reaches more than seven billion mobile devices through more than 10,000 connections, including more than 800 direct operator connections. The group was established in 2006 and is led by Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Silvio Kutić and Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer Izabel Jelenić.