One-Time Password
One-Time Password
A temporary, single-use password generated fresh each time you log in or complete a procedure.
In Simple Terms
An OTP is a password that's freshly generated each time you log in, and it can only be used once. It's commonly used when transferring money through online banking or logging into online games. You prove it's really you by entering a number that appears temporarily on a smartphone app or a small dedicated device called a token.
Behind the Name
The name comes from combining the English words "one-time" (used only once) and "password." Just as the name suggests, it's a password you can use only one single time.
Take a Closer Look!
An OTP is a temporary password that's freshly generated on the spot whenever you log in to an online service.
It's used alongside your regular password as an extra layer of protection, adding another lock to keep your account safe.
There are a few different ways you might receive one.
With a dedicated smartphone app or a small physical device called a "token," a new number is automatically calculated and displayed on screen at short intervals such as every 30 seconds or every minute.
With email or SMS delivery, a number generated by the server is sent to you each time you log in, and it stays valid for anywhere from a few minutes to ten-odd minutes.
Either way, once the set time limit passes, that number becomes invalid and can never be used again.
Even if someone else gets hold of your regular password, they still can't log in without this one-time code.
And since a new number is generated every time you log in, even if someone spots it, it'll be useless the next time around.
This double layer of protection is what keeps your important information safe.