UAE Banks Phasing Out SMS, Email OTPs
Dubai: Starting March 31, 2026, UAE banks will stop using OTPs sent via SMS or email for logins, transfers, and approvals. This change, mandated by the Central Bank of the UAE, moves banking to secure, app-based authentication.
Why the Change?
Traditional OTPs are no longer secure and can be stolen through SIM-swapping, phishing, social engineering, or message interception. With digital fraud on the rise, stronger authentication methods are needed to protect customers.
How Will Transactions Be Approved?
Transactions will now be approved directly through banking apps, using in-app confirmations, biometric security such as Face ID or fingerprint, passkeys and device-based authentication, and optional integration with UAE Pass for added verification.
What You Should Do?
Make sure your banking app is updated, enable in-app notifications and biometric login, and familiarise yourself with the new approval process. Customers who do not switch to app-based authentication may face limitations after March 2026.
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