GS2The Indian Express · Editorial
OTP or fixed PIN? It’s a question of security
One-time passwords and fixed PINs are both authentication tools, but each has distinct security risks and convenience trade-offs.
SP
Samachar Pathshala Desk
Published 16 Jul 2026 · 1 min
Key takeaways
- One-time passwords and fixed PINs each improve access control, but each also creates a different security risk.
Authentication for digital transactions depends on a balance between convenience and security. The Indian Express explains why one-time passwords (OTPs) and fixed PINs each solve part of the problem but also create distinct vulnerabilities.
The UPSC angle
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Authentication security as a digital-governance and cyber-security issue
UPSC can frame this as a question on cyber security, digital literacy, and safe design of authentication systems. Candidates should be able to discuss the trade-off between convenience and security in one-time passwords, fixed PINs, and layered safeguards such as phishing resistance and user awareness.
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