Traditional authentication methods like passwords and SMS codes are becoming obsolete as more secure, faster, and frictionless technologies emerge—such as Number Verify, an API poised to redefine digital identity verification.
What is number verify and how does It work?
Number Verify confirms that the phone number a user enters matches the mobile line they’re using at that moment. Its biggest innovation lies in how it does this: it uses mobile network intelligence to authenticate silently—without one-time passwords (OTPs), SMS codes, or extra steps that interrupt the user experience.
The verification happens instantly and in the background. The user completes their registration or transaction while the technology invisibly confirms their identity.
This approach positions Number Verify as a replacement for outdated, less secure, and more cumbersome methods like SMS-based OTPs. By operating silently in the background, it reduces fraud risk and significantly enhances the user experience.
Why it’s poised to become the standard in 2026
Developed under GSMA’s Open Gateway initiative, Number Verify is expected to become the dominant authentication solution next year. Its advantages are clear:
• Enhanced security to prevent fraud and identity theft
• Real-time, background verification (“silent authentication”)
• Faster and simpler user experiences, with no additional apps or steps
• Elimination of SMS-related vulnerabilities
• Alignment with global digital security standards and regulations
Industries where it will have the greatest impact
According to Juniper Research, number verification is one of the key APIs driving trust in the emerging Open Gateway ecosystem, alongside SIM Swap Detection.
Industries expected to adopt it most rapidly include:
• Fintech and banking
• Ride-hailing and delivery platforms
• E-commerce and marketplaces
• Digital marketing and lead generation
A growing market
Research from Market Intelo shows that the global number verification API market reached $1.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to hit $4.5 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 15.7%. This growth is fueled by “process digitalization, rising identity fraud, and the demand for secure, seamless, real-time authentication.”
In Latin America, regulatory pressure to combat financial fraud and the rapid adoption of digital payments are accelerating the use of this technology among banks and fintechs.
Plusmo’s role
At Plusmo, we are committed to strengthening digital authentication and protecting both users and businesses from fraud and scams. Through Plusmo Protect, we offer a suite of mobile identity APIs that secure transactions, reduce operational costs, and streamline onboarding.
