Send OTP via SMS or WhatsApp? Which is More Secure & Cheaper?

When it comes to sending OTPs, both SMS and WhatsApp are popular choices. Businesses and service providers use these methods to send OTP and verify users while protecting transactions. But which one is safer, more reliable, and cheaper? In this blog, we will compare SMS and WhatsApp OTPs, looking at their security, reliability, benefits, and drawbacks. In the end, we will analyze all the factors and decide which one is the best option to send OTP based on security, cost, and speed. Let’s get started!

Security Comparison: Is It Safer to Send OTP via SMS or WhatsApp?

When it comes to security, both WhatsApp and SMS have their strengths and weaknesses. SMS OTPs are popular because they don’t need the internet and work on all mobile phones. However, SMS messages are not fully encrypted, which makes them risky. Hackers can use SIM swap attacks, phishing scams, or other tricks to steal OTPs. If someone takes control of a phone number, they can easily access the OTP and bypass security. Still, SMS is considered reliable for OTP delivery, especially when sent through DLT-approved SMS gateways, which add extra security.

On the other hand, WhatsApp OTPs are end-to-end encrypted, meaning only the user can read the message. This makes WhatsApp more secure against interception. However, the biggest risk is account hijacking—if a hacker takes over a person’s WhatsApp account, they can receive OTPs meant for that user. Another issue is that WhatsApp OTPs need an internet connection, which can cause delays or failures if the network is weak. For businesses handling sensitive data, SMS is usually the better choice because it works everywhere and doesn’t depend on the internet.

Cost Analysis: Is It Cheaper to Send OTP via SMS or WhatsApp?

When comparing the cost of sending OTPs through SMS and WhatsApp, SMS is usually cheaper, especially for businesses that send OTPs in large numbers. The cost of SMS depends on things like location, mobile network rules, and the number of messages sent, but in most cases, bulk SMS rates are very low. This makes SMS a budget-friendly choice for companies that need to send OTPs often. Another big advantage of SMS is that it does not need the internet, so OTPs can be delivered even in places with poor network coverage. Many businesses prefer DLT-approved SMS services because they are safe, affordable, and have no extra charges.

On the other hand, WhatsApp OTPs are more expensive because they use the WhatsApp Business API, which charges for each message. While WhatsApp is secure, businesses have to pay more to use verified WhatsApp messaging, making it less cost-effective for sending OTPs in large numbers. Another problem is that WhatsApp OTPs need an internet connection, which can cause delays or failures if the internet is slow or unavailable. For businesses looking for a cheaper and more reliable way to send OTPs, SMS is still the best choice because it costs less, works everywhere, and does not depend on the internet.

Reliability: Which Platform Ensures Faster & More Accurate OTP Delivery?

When it comes to reliability, both SMS and WhatsApp have their benefits, but SMS is usually faster and more dependable. SMS does not need the internet, so OTPs can be sent quickly, even in places where Wi-Fi or mobile data is weak. It works on all mobile phones, even simple basic phones, making it a better option for everyone. Also, SMS runs on mobile networks, which are built for fast and smooth OTP delivery. Approved SMS services add extra security and help ensure that OTPs are delivered without delay.

On the other hand, WhatsApp OTPs need an internet connection, which can cause delays or failures if the user has slow or no internet. While WhatsApp keeps messages safe, problems like server issues, weak mobile data, or app restrictions can slow down OTP delivery. Another issue is that not everyone uses WhatsApp or links it to their phone number, making it less reliable for sending OTPs to all users. For businesses that need fast, accurate, and easy OTP delivery, SMS is the better choice because it is quick, stable, and works without the internet.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Sending OTP via SMS vs. WhatsApp

Advantages of Sending OTP via SMS

• Works on all phones: Even basic mobile phones can receive SMS OTPs.
• No internet needed: SMS is sent instantly, even in places with no Wi-Fi or mobile data.
• Fast and reliable: SMS is sent through mobile networks, ensuring quick delivery.
• Widely accepted: Most banks, e-commerce websites, and businesses use SMS for OTP verification.
• More secure with DLT: approved services – Regulated SMS providers reduce fraud and spam risks.

Disadvantages of Sending OTP via SMS

• Can be stolen by hackers: Fraudsters can use SIM swap fraud or phishing to steal OTPs.
• Delivery may be delayed: If mobile networks are down or too busy, OTPs might take longer to arrive.
• Some SMS messages get blocked: Certain service providers block international or bulk SMS due to spam rules.

Advantages of Sending OTP via WhatsAp

• More secure with encryption: OTP messages on WhatsApp are protected and cannot be easily hacked.
• Easy for users: Many people use WhatsApp, making OTPs more convenient.
• Can be received on multiple devices: Users can get OTPs on linked devices for better access.
• Less spam filtering: WhatsApp messages do not get blocked like SMS sometimes does.

Disadvantages of Sending OTP via WhatsApp

• Needs an internet connection: OTPs may be delayed or undelivered if the user has no internet access.
• Not everyone has WhatsApp: Some users do not use WhatsApp or have not linked it to their phone number.
• WhatsApp accounts can be hacked: If someone hacks a WhatsApp account, they can receive OTPs meant for the real user.
• More expensive for businesses: WhatsApp Business API charges per OTP message, making it costlier than bulk SMS.

Closing Remarks: Which is the Best Option to Send OTP – SMS or WhatsApp?

If you are choosing between SMS and WhatsApp for sending OTPs, both have good and bad points. SMS is more reliable and easy to use because it works on all phones, does not need the internet, and sends OTPs quickly through mobile networks. Banks, businesses, and online stores prefer SMS for safe verification. Also, DLT-approved SMS services add extra security, making SMS a trusted choice for OTP delivery. But sometimes, hackers can steal SMS OTPs using SIM swap fraud, and weak mobile signals may cause small delays.

On the other hand, WhatsApp OTPs are more secure because they use end-to-end encryption, which means only the receiver can see them. But WhatsApp OTPs need the internet, so if the network is weak, there may be delays or failed deliveries. Also, not everyone links their WhatsApp to their phone number, making it less reliable for all users. WhatsApp OTP services also cost more because businesses have to pay per message through WhatsApp Business API. For companies looking for a cheaper, faster, and more reliable OTP service, SMS is the best option.

Shree Tripada: Secure & Reliable Bulk OTP Delivery via Bulk SMS & WhatsApp Business Service

If you need to send OTPs in bulk via SMS or WhatsApp, Shree Tripada is the best choice. They offer safe, secure, and fast OTP delivery, ensuring your messages reach users quickly and without delays. With DLT-registered bulk SMS services, you get trusted and legally approved OTP solutions, protecting your business from fraud and following telecom rules. They also provide WhatsApp Business services, allowing businesses to send OTPs securely through WhatsApp. Whether you need bulk SMS services for banking, e-commerce, or other online services, Shree Tripada ensures quick and reliable delivery at an affordable price. Choose Shree Tripada for secure and hassle-free OTP services today!