Citizens and expatriates have welcomed the Ministry of Interior (MoI)’s launch on Thursday of the One Time Password (OTP) feature for its online services.

The OTP is a password that is valid for only one login session or transaction on a computer system or digital device and used for a secured cyber exchange of services overcoming a number of shortcomings commonly associated with traditional password-based authentication.

Describing it as a welcome step for netizens and a substantial attempt toward cyber security, Abdussalam Al-Yousuf, a software programmer, said: “It is wiser to opt for the OTP system as it is widely considered as a possible replacement for traditional passwords and affirms safer logins.”

He added that as opposed to the static or traditional password, the OTP was far more secure because the password would be valid for only one login at a time.

Manzar Khan, who works as an executive with Al-Rajhi Bank in Riyadh, also welcomed the MoI initiative saying, “The OTP system will further improve the ministry’s online services with greater cyber security.”

Echoing the sentiment, Mohammad Mohsin, a Pakistani national who works as a chartered accountant, said: “There was a serious threat earlier because anyone who knew the password, could access the user’s account and cancel his visa or seek the final exit. Now, with the OTP in place, it is much safer.”