TORONTO – EnStream and digital identity authentication company Payfone are teaming up to stamp out passwords with a new global mobile-based federated digital identity platform.
The new Mobile ID service, to be available initially in Canada, will allow consumers to log into accounts or verify transactions with any participating online service using a single mobile app on their phone. Backed by participating mobile network operators, the service will bring together EnStream's Mobile Connect solution with Payfone's Trust Score identity and fraud analytics solution, which is currently used by Fortune 100 banks, retailers, and health insurance companies, among others.
According to the news release, the service will replace the need for passwords and “clumsy” two-factor authentication methods. Online connections will be automatically secured if a phone is reported lost or stolen and no personally identifiable information will be stored on the phone. In addition, participating online services will be able to incorporate their own branding into the app to ensure an experience that is branded end-to-end.
"Login with your phone will one day become as ubiquitous as being able to use your credit card anywhere you shop," said EnStream's chief identity officer Robert Blumenthal, in the release. "But it has to be much easier to use and much more secure than SMS passcodes to be trusted by online services and consumers alike. We provide device-based security enabled with a secure PIN or biometrics, enhanced by real-time mobile network verification and fraud analytics to protect your identity."
EnStream is a joint venture between Bell Mobility, Rogers Communications and Telus Communications that provides identity verification and authentication services for third party applications.
