How to Send OTP on WhatsApp Business Account: A Step-by-Step Guide
One of the most common and effective methods businesses use to secure accounts is through the One-Time Password (OTP) system. OTPs provide an extra layer of security by sending a unique, time-sensitive code to the user’s phone number. With the growing popularity of WhatsApp Business as a communication tool, many businesses are now looking for ways to integrate OTP delivery directly through this platform.
This article will walk you through the process of sending OTPs on a WhatsApp Business account. We will cover the fundamentals, including the importance of OTPs, the prerequisites for setting up WhatsApp Business API, and a step-by-step guide to sending OTPs via WhatsApp.
Why Use WhatsApp for Sending OTPs?
WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging platforms globally, with over 2 billion active users. WhatsApp Business, specifically designed for businesses, provides a direct and efficient way to communicate with customers. Leveraging WhatsApp for OTP delivery comes with several advantages:
High Reach: Many users already have WhatsApp installed, so it’s more likely that customers will receive and view your OTP messages.
Instant Delivery: WhatsApp messages are delivered almost instantly, ensuring timely access to the OTP for users.
User Convenience: Customers find it more convenient to receive OTPs on the platforms they use frequently.
Secure Communication: WhatsApp offers end-to-end encryption, making OTP delivery more secure compared to traditional SMS.
Setting Up WhatsApp Business API
Before diving into sending OTPs, it’s important to understand that you’ll need to set up the WhatsApp Business API. Unlike the regular WhatsApp Business app, the API is designed for medium to large businesses that require automation and integration capabilities.
Step 1: Registering for the WhatsApp Business API
Create a Facebook Business Account: WhatsApp Business API is managed through Facebook, so you need a verified Facebook Business account. Head to the Facebook Business Manager and follow the prompts to set up your account.
Apply for WhatsApp Business API Access: You can apply directly through Facebook or a third-party WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP) like EnableX, Twilio, MessageBird, or Vonage. These BSPs simplify the integration process by handling the technical aspects of the API setup.
Verify Your Business: After applying, your business needs to go through a verification process. Facebook will review your business details to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for using WhatsApp Business API.
Phone Number Registration: Once your account is verified, register the phone number you intend to use for sending OTPs. Ensure that this number is not already associated with any other WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business account.
Step 2: Setting Up Webhooks and Messaging Templates
Webhook Configuration: After registering, you’ll need to configure webhooks. Webhooks allow WhatsApp to communicate with your server, sending event notifications like message delivery status and incoming messages. Your webhook URL should be publicly accessible, and it must be configured to handle requests from WhatsApp.
Create Message Templates: WhatsApp enforces strict rules on business-initiated messages. You must create message templates for transactional messages like OTPs. These templates need to be approved by WhatsApp before use. Here’s an example of an OTP template:
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Template Name: OTP_Notification
Message: Your one-time password (OTP) is {{1}}. Please use this to complete your transaction. This OTP will expire in {{2}} minutes.
Note that placeholders like {{1}} allow you to insert dynamic content, such as the actual OTP code and expiration time.
Step 3: Integrating with a BSP or Custom API Solution
BSP Integration: Once everything is set up, you can integrate with a Business Solution Provider (BSP). These providers typically offer an SDK or API that simplifies the process of sending messages, including OTPs. Popular providers like Twilio or MessageBird will provide documentation and support to guide you through the integration process.
Custom API Integration: If you prefer to handle everything in-house, you can directly integrate with the WhatsApp Business API. This requires more technical expertise, as you’ll be responsible for handling the API calls, security, and error management. You can find detailed documentation on the WhatsApp Business API Developer Portal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sending OTP via WhatsApp Business
Once your WhatsApp Business API setup is complete, you can begin sending OTPs to your customers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Step 1: Generate the OTP
The first step in the process is to generate a unique OTP for the user. Most OTP systems use a random number generator to create a code that is typically between 4 to 8 digits long. You can either generate OTPs on your server or use an external service that specializes in secure OTP generation.
Step 2: Format the OTP Message
Using your approved WhatsApp message template, you can format the OTP message. Replace the placeholders in the template with the actual OTP code and expiration time. For example:
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Your one-time password (OTP) is 654321. Please use this to complete your transaction. This OTP will expire in 10 minutes.
Step 3: Send the OTP Message via API
Now, you need to send the formatted message to the user’s WhatsApp number. This is done via the WhatsApp Business API or through your chosen BSP. Here’s an example of how you might do it using the WhatsApp API:
Make an API Request: Send a POST request to the WhatsApp Business API endpoint with the following details:
To: The customer’s WhatsApp number (e.g., +1234567890).
Type: template.
Template Name: The approved OTP template (e.g., OTP_Notification).
Parameters: Insert the generated OTP and the expiration time.
An example API request might look like this:
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POST /v1/messages
{
“to”: “+1234567890”,
“type”: “template”,
“template”: {
“name”: “OTP_Notification”,
“language”: {
“code”: “en_US”
},
“components”: [
{
“type”: “body”,
“parameters”: [
{
“type”: “text”,
“text”: “654321”
},
{
“type”: “text”,
“text”: “10”
}
]
}
Handle the API Response: After sending the request, the API will respond with the delivery status. If successful, the user will receive the OTP on their WhatsApp, and you can log the success in your system. If there’s an error, you’ll need to handle it accordingly, possibly retrying or alerting the user.
Step 4: OTP Verification
Once the user receives the OTP, they will enter it on your platform. Your backend system should verify the OTP by matching it with the one generated earlier. Ensure that the OTP hasn’t expired and that it’s still valid for the specific transaction.
Step 5: Confirmation or Retry
If the OTP verification is successful, proceed with the user’s requested action, such as login, transaction completion, or account creation. If the OTP is incorrect or expired, notify the user and offer them an option to request a new OTP.
Best Practices for Sending OTPs on WhatsApp Business
While sending OTPs on WhatsApp Business is a powerful feature, it’s essential to follow best practices to ensure a smooth experience for both your business and your customers:
Template Approval: Always ensure that your OTP message templates are approved by WhatsApp before sending any messages. Unapproved templates can result in message delivery failures.
Rate Limiting: Implement rate limiting to prevent abuse, such as multiple OTP requests in a short period. This helps reduce the risk of fraud and improves the user experience.
Clear Expiration Policies: Clearly communicate the OTP expiration time to users. Typically, OTPs are valid for 5 to 10 minutes to balance security and user convenience.
Secure Storage: If you store OTPs on your server, ensure they are stored securely. Use encryption and delete the OTP after successful verification to prevent misuse.
Fallback Mechanisms: Offer alternative delivery methods, such as SMS or email, if the WhatsApp OTP fails to deliver. This ensures that users can still complete their actions even if there’s a temporary issue with WhatsApp.
Sending OTPs via WhatsApp Business provider a fast, convenient, and secure method for businesses to enhance their security protocols. By leveraging WhatsApp’s extensive user base and instant messaging capabilities, businesses can offer their customers a seamless authentication experience. The key to success lies in setting up the WhatsApp Business API correctly, adhering to WhatsApp’s guidelines, and following best practices for OTP delivery.
FAQs
1. Can I send OTPs through the regular WhatsApp Business App?
No, the regular WhatsApp Business App does not support sending OTPs in an automated fashion. To send OTPs at scale, you need to use the WhatsApp Business API, which allows for automation and integration with your existing OTP generation systems.
2. How can I get access to the WhatsApp Business API?
You can apply for WhatsApp Business API access through Facebook or work with a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP). BSPs are third-party companies that help businesses integrate and use the WhatsApp Business API.
3. Do I need developer support to set up OTP sending on WhatsApp Business?
Yes, setting up OTP sending via the WhatsApp Business API typically requires developer assistance, as it involves integrating your OTP generation system with the WhatsApp API.
4. Are there any restrictions on sending OTPs via WhatsApp?
WhatsApp enforces the use of pre-approved message templates for outbound messages, including OTPs. You must create a template that complies with WhatsApp’s guidelines and get it approved before you can start sending OTPs.
5. How secure is sending OTPs through WhatsApp Business?
Sending OTPs through WhatsApp Business is highly secure, provided you use the WhatsApp Business API and follow the best security practices. WhatsApp messages are encrypted, adding an extra layer of protection for your communications.
6. Can customers respond to OTP messages sent via WhatsApp Business?
Yes, customers can respond to OTP messages, but typically, you don’t need them to respond. OTP messages are usually one-way communications meant for authentication purposes. However, you can set up automated responses if needed.
