SMS authentication is a two-factor authentication (2FA) method that enhances security by requiring users to enter a one-time password (OTP) sent via text message along with their usual login credentials. This approach is popular among organizations, especially in sectors like finance and healthcare, that need to secure external user access to sensitive data. While SMS authentication offers a balance between ease of use and increased security, it is not without vulnerabilities, such as SIM swapping and man-in-the-middle attacks. Despite these concerns, SMS remains widely adopted due to its convenience and the ubiquity of text messaging. However, experts have recommended moving away from SMS in favor of more secure alternatives like authenticator apps, physical tokens, and biometrics, although these options face challenges in terms of user adoption and management. The development of a universal authentication platform remains a priority to reconcile security needs with user convenience.