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How do passkeys address the high costs of SMS OTPs?

Vincent Delitz

Vincent

Created: January 8, 2025

Updated: May 22, 2025

introducing passkeys large scale overview

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Learn how to implement passkeys as phishing-resistant MFA for large-scale consumer deployments and boost security as well as user convenience.

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How Do Passkeys Address the High Costs of SMS OTPs?#

SMS OTPs are a costly authentication method for enterprises due to per-message fees, high usage volume, and operational overhead. Passkeys provide a cost-effective alternative by eliminating the need for SMS-based authentication. Here's how passkeys help:

1. No Per-Message Fees#

  • Passkeys operate over the internet without relying on telecommunications networks.
  • This eliminates the recurring costs of sending SMS OTPs for logins, sign-ups, and account recovery.

2. Reduction of Fraud Costs#

  • SMS-based systems are vulnerable to artificially inflated traffic (AIT), where attackers generate fake OTP requests to increase costs.
  • Passkeys are immune to such attacks, significantly reducing fraudulent expenses.
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3. Streamlined Authentication#

  • Passkeys offer faster and simpler authentication processes using biometrics or device-based PINs.
  • This reduces the reliance on SMS OTPs and improves user experience, encouraging adoption of the cost-saving alternative.

4. Decreased Operational Overhead#

  • Passkeys eliminate issues related to failed SMS delivery (e.g., due to carrier restrictions or cross-border challenges), reducing the number of support tickets.
  • Fewer recovery calls and support interventions lead to lower operational costs.

5. Realizing Savings with Passkeys#

By transitioning to passkeys, enterprises can save up to 90% of their SMS OTP-related costs. This not only reduces financial strain but also enhances security and user experience.

Read the full article#

introducing passkeys large scale overview

Read the full article

Learn how to implement passkeys as phishing-resistant MFA for large-scale consumer deployments and boost security as well as user convenience.

Read the full article

Read by 5,000+ security leaders.

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