The practice involves using a telephone messaging system as a step in verifying a transaction made through the popular online retail platform. An individual receives a recorded message prompting them to confirm or deny a recent order. This method serves as a supplementary security measure employed by either the retailer or financial institutions to prevent unauthorized use of accounts. For example, a customer might receive a call following a large or unusual purchase, with the automated system requesting confirmation via keypad input.
This verification process offers heightened protection against fraudulent activities and identity theft. It supplements traditional security measures like passwords and security questions, adding an extra layer of assurance for both the consumer and the retailer. The use of voice messaging for authentication emerged alongside the increasing sophistication of online fraud and the growing need for robust verification methods. Its value lies in its accessibility; it can reach individuals regardless of their comfort level with advanced technologies like multi-factor authentication apps.
