Aduna, AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon’s US Anti-Fraud Push

Aduna is deploying a network API-based Number Verification solution, which acts as a frictionless and more secure alternative to SMS one-time passwords (OTPs), in collaboration with the three national US mobile operators, AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon.  

This technology is needed because cybercriminals are increasingly using sophisticated social engineering scams and AI systems that circumvent OTP security measures.

“We are entering an era where your mobile number is one of your most secure digital passports,” says Anthony Bartolo, CEO of Aduna. 

“By authenticating users directly through the carrier network in real time, we can reduce customer friction while significantly reducing the risk of fraud through interception or account takeover.”

Eliminating the friction of SMS

Aduna's Number Verification solution provides identity confirmation through possession-based authentication. 

This process verifies a user's mobile number directly with the carrier, cross-checking its association with the active SIM card and physical device. The verification is completed in real-time, bypassing the security vulnerabilities and user friction typically associated with SMS OTPs.

Previous network-driven verification programs faced deployment challenges when subscribers were connected to Wi-Fi networks or using specific hardware. 

This new technical development resolves these compatibility hurdles, enabling the system to work smoothly across all primary operating systems and network configurations. The result is a unified and secure authentication experience for smartphone users across the US.

“At AT&T, we’re focused on advancing the network as a platform for innovation,” says Lani Ingram, Vice President of AT&T Connected Solutions, AT&T Business. 

“Aduna’s Number Verification marks an important step in how businesses and developers securely interact with the network. 

“Through standardised network APIs, we’re enabling real-time authentication that moves beyond legacy methods like SMS codes. Our work with Aduna reflects a shared commitment to open innovation and delivering more secure, seamless digital experiences at scale.”

Seamless verification for US businesses

The deployment of this network-level authentication comes at a key time for US consumers, who reported a record US$15.9bn in fraud losses last year, according to data from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). 

For enterprises, the real-time network authentication model offers several key operational benefits. Security is strengthened because verification takes place in near-time, helping to block "man-in-the-middle" attacks where data is intercepted during transmission. 

The solution also provides total reach across the market, allowing organisations to access verified identity details across the domestic networks of AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon through a single API integration.

In addition, eliminating the need for customers to wait for a text message and manually enter codes leads to fewer abandoned login attempts and reduced support expenses for businesses.

“T-Mobile has been pioneering network-based authentication for years, and the results speak for themselves – from the seamless, secure experiences we've built into T-Life to the network intelligence we're now making available to the broader ecosystem,” says Dirk Mosa, SVP, Spectrum, Wholesale & Roaming at T-Mobile. 

“With Number Verification, developers and businesses gain direct access to the same carrier-level trust that powers our own products. 

“T-Mobile's network is the enabler – delivering real-time, possession-based authentication that eliminates the vulnerabilities of SMS codes at scale. The future of digital identity runs through the carrier network, and T-Mobile is leading the way.”

An open platform for global operators

By establishing strong possession-based authentication between mobile network operators and subscribers, the service sets a higher baseline for secure digital identification. 

For systems integrators, hyperscalers and application developers, the solution offers a method to reinforce consumer trust in a complex digital environment.

“With sophisticated new forms of fraud on the rise, consumers need the latest in secure, network-driven identity verification to help keep them protected,” says Shamik Basu, VP of Strategic Connectivity, Verizon Business. 

“Through this collaboration with Aduna, we’re leveraging our network to help replace friction with seamlessness, enabling a real-time authentication experience that helps protect our users and streamlines the digital journey for businesses and consumers alike. 

“This is a critical step in building a resilient digital ecosystem where security and user experience go hand-in hand.”

Aduna is a joint venture combining the resources of global telecom operators and network vendor Ericsson. 

It focuses on helping developers worldwide speed up digital innovation by allowing them to harness the capabilities of mobile networks through consistent network APIs.

By consolidating network APIs across multiple international operators under a single platform, the company has created a standardised framework. 

This framework is based on the CAMARA open-source initiative, which is coordinated by the GSMA and the Linux Foundation. 

Through this unified platform, Aduna aims to encourage industry collaboration, improve user experiences and support broader telecom sector growth.