M1, Singtel and StarHub collaborating on universal mobile-based authentication

M1, Singtel and StarHub have announced a collaboration to build a unified platform based on GSMA’s Mobile Connect authentication standard to let Singapore consumers enjoy fast, simple and secure access to a variety of online services with their mobile number.

According to the GSMA, consumers don't like registering for services and information on the internet, with 87 percent of visitors leaving a website when asked to register. Additionally, consumers also face difficulties remembering their growing list of usernames and passwords, with 40 percent using the “forget password” feature monthly.

GSMA's Mobile Connect platform free customers from having to manage multiple usernames and passwords for every online account by creating a single universal trusted digital identity for convenient and secure access to compatible telecommunications, banking, e-commerce, entertainment, government and travel services and applications. With Mobile Connect, customers will be able to easily confirm their identity using their mobile number, combined with a unique personal code for online transactions that require greater levels of security. No information will be made available to online service providers without users’ permission. Mobile Connect is currently available in 22 countries.

The three telcos are currently working towards a unified platform to support Mobile Connect, with the first wave of supported online services expected in the second half of 2017.