The proliferation of smartphones and connected devices has led to a massive increase in the collection and analysis of personal data. As a result, individuals, businesses and policymakers increasingly recognise that there is great potential for this data in enabling and enhancing digital services.
Yet the once stable criteria for trusting services have been disrupted by the ever-changing digital era. The growing number of digital services, accessible from any location and from multiple devices, has created new threats to privacy and the security of our data. This has led to a litany breaches, privacy infringements and tighter regulation, all of which have influenced consumer attitudes to the point where there is a substantial –and growing– market for privacy and data tools and services. People need a trusted way to navigate this landscape simply, safely and securely.
Over the past year, the GSMA has been working with operators and service providers to deliver just that. Mobile Connect is a convenient and secure universal log-in solution with privacy protection. Firstly, It solves the problem of remembering dozens of passwords by enabling the user to login to a multiplicity of services using a mobile phone. The service provider can be assured that authentication and verification is based on robust and trusted data held by the operators for their subscriber database, without the need to share additional information.
Mobile Connect is based on secure network assets, including the SIM, which provides optimum security. Personal information is never shared without the user’s express permission. The user is granted access anonymously, and if they choose, they can pair their digital accounts with Mobile Connect to share data. Furthermore, all Mobile Connect partner services must also adopt Mobile Connect’s privacy guidelines, reinforcing your privacy and control of your data.
Operators interested in Mobile Connect can join the Personal Data Global Interest Group to gain access to commercial details, technical specifications and informative webinars, and hear from operators who have already launched in the market. Alternatively, visit gsma.com/personaldata to keep up to date with the latest developments in Mobile Connect, the secure and universal log-in solution.