A one-time password (OTP) on the Android operating system constitutes a string of characters generated for a single login session or transaction. This dynamically created password offers enhanced security compared to static passwords, as it becomes invalid immediately after use. An example of this mechanism is the code sent to a mobile device via SMS during two-factor authentication when accessing an online account through an Android phone or tablet.
The significance of this security measure lies in its ability to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access arising from compromised static passwords. By introducing a time-sensitive and unique password, the potential damage from password theft, phishing attacks, or data breaches is substantially reduced. This security layer has evolved from early challenge-response systems to the ubiquitous SMS-based delivery common today, reflecting the increasing need for robust security in a mobile-first world.
