Singtel and M1 Collaborate to Tackle Digital Fraud

Singtel and M1 today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enable network-based authentication for Singtel and M1 mobile subscribers through telco application programming interfaces (APIs), which are interoperable and based on a common framework of industry standards and protocols set by the GSMA. With on-demand and secure access to telco capabilities through APIs, telco networks will become a direct authentication solution, expediting the user authentication experience that is critical in the digital age.

As one of the first in the world to collaborate at a national level, the two telcos will work together to federate a suite of APIs that will enable enterprises to access real-time telco network data for authentication and fraud detection. The first set of APIs to be federated is Number Verify and Device Location. As part of the agreement, both telcos will work together to federate more APIs in the future.

Mr Ng Tian Chong, Chief Executive Officer, Singtel Singapore said, “Digital fraud is increasing and growing in sophistication, leaving consumers and businesses apprehensive about embracing a digital future. Solving this isn’t something that can be done alone. We’re glad to have a like-minded partner like M1, who understands the need to join forces to combat this global problem at a national level. This federation is a step in the right direction, and we encourage other telcos to come on board. We’re confident that together, we can help mitigate fraud in real-time, and safeguard Singapore and Singaporeans from further attacks.”

Mr Mustafa Kapasi, Chief Operating Officer of M1 said, “This collaboration with Singtel goes beyond a mere partnership, it is a decisive move to safeguard users and businesses against evolving digital threats. By federating APIs and leveraging the synergies in our network capabilities, we will offer both enterprises and consumers access to more secure and verified digital transactions. M1 is committed to improving the security of transactions, enhancing user experience and ensuring a secure and resilient digital future for all.”

The agreement between both companies was inked by Mr Lim Seng Kong, Singtel Managing Director Enterprise and Mr Mark Tan, M1 Chief Enterprise Strategy and Business Officer at Singtel’s Future Innovation Centre on 4 March 2024, which was witnessed by Mr Ng Tian Chong, Singtel Singapore CEO, and Mr Manjot Singh Mann, M1 CEO.

The federation works in accordance with the GSMA Open Gateway1 framework, a globally recognised initiative that is designed to provide universal access and ensure swift deployment and integration across different mobile networks, allowing more service providers and end users to benefit from the solution.