Silent Authentication Advanced [Alpha]

In Vonage Verify, Silent Authentication is an authentication method that confirms a user’s identity using their mobile network without the need to send, copy, or enter One-Time Passwords (OTPs). Vonage now offers two versions of Silent Authentication: the standard version called Silent Authentication, and a new version called Silent Authentication Advanced (SAA). Both versions eliminate OTP friction, but they rely on different network signals, making each more suitable for various scenarios.

In the Vonage Verify API workflow, Silent Authentication Advanced supports authentication over Wi-Fi and VPN connections, and is not limited to cellular networks. This solution is ideal for enterprises that need reliable performance across Wi-Fi and VPN, as well as for industries that require the highest levels of security.

This guide focuses on understanding what Silent Authentication Advanced is and how it differs from Silent Authentication.

For now, Silent Authentication Advanced will only be available via Virtual Operator.

How It Works

The standard version of Silent Authentication uses IP-based verification, while Silent Authentication Advanced offers an approach independent of IP correlation. Instead, it uses a new network-verification technology, the GSMA TS.43 protocol. This method checks directly between the SIM card and the network inside the operator's core. It cryptographically verifies that the SIM card associated with the phone number is active and present, regardless of whether the user is on mobile data, Wi-Fi, or a VPN.

To use Silent Authentication Advanced, add the mode parameter to the workflow in your Verify request:

{
   "client_ref": "myPersonalRef",
   "code_length": 4,
   "brand": "ACME",
   "workflow": [
      {
         "channel": "silent_auth",
         "to": "'$VERIFY_NUMBER'",
         "mode": "advanced"
      },
      {
         "channel": "sms",
         "to": "'$VERIFY_NUMBER'"
      }
   ]
}

If the Silent Authentication Advanced check fails, for example, due to the lack of network coverage, Vonage Verify will automatically switch to the backup channels, such as SMS or voice call.

Try It Out

You can test Silent Authentication Advanced immediately using virtual phone numbers. Learn more in the Virtual Operator guide.

Silent Authentication vs Silent Authentication Advanced

The following table outlines the specific distinctions between the Silent Authentication and Silent Authentication Advanced:

Feature Silent Authentication Silent Authentication Advanced (SAA)
Authentication Method Network Based Token-Based (SIM/eSIM Entitlement)
Network Coverage Cellular Data (auto fallback to alternative verification channel when using Wi-Fi and VPN) Wi-Fi, VPN, and Cellular
User Experience Completely Frictionless (no input needed) Completely Frictionless (no input needed)
Fraud Protection High (Against SMS/Voice OTP fraud) Superior (Uses OS-level cryptographic tokens)
Availability 15 Countries Virtual Operator

Further reading