Announced at MWC25 Doha, the rollout includes the commercial release of two key network APIs — Number Verification and SIM Swap — giving developers direct access to network-level intelligence to authenticate users and detect suspicious activity.
Ooredoo and Vodafone Qatar have jointly launched new network technologies designed to combat rising digital fraud, leveraging the GSMA Open Gateway initiative to provide developers with secure, CAMARA-standardised APIs that strengthen consumer protection.
Announced at MWC25 Doha, the rollout includes the commercial release of two key network APIs — Number Verification and SIM Swap — giving developers direct access to network-level intelligence to authenticate users and detect suspicious activity.
The initiative comes as Qatar faces a growing digital fraud challenge amid rapid expansion of its digital economy. Since 2024, Qatar Central Bank has led a national awareness campaign targeting financial phishing attempts, while the Qatar Financial Information Unit continues to reinforce efforts against online financial crime. Globally, digital fraud remains a critical concern, with GASA estimating that scammers stole more than $1 trillion from victims last year.
APIs Now Available to Developers
The two new APIs offered by Ooredoo and Vodafone are designed to help enterprises reduce fraud risk and enhance user trust:
- SIM Swap API: Detects recent changes to the SIM card associated with a mobile number, providing either a timestamp of the last swap or a yes/no response for a specified time window. This helps online services identify possible fraud attempts linked to SIM hijacking.
- Number Verify API: Allows enterprises to confirm whether a device’s mobile number matches the one provided by the user, enabling seamless, secure authentication.
Henry Calvert, Head of Networks at GSMA, described the launch as a major step in enabling interoperability and global collaboration. He noted that the APIs allow banks and online retailers to interact with operators in a standardised way, strengthening defenses against fraud and scams.
Thani Al Malki, Chief Business Officer at Ooredoo Qatar, highlighted that giving developers access to network intelligence supports safer and more frictionless digital experiences for sectors such as banking and e-commerce. Baran Yurdagul, Chief Operating Officer at Vodafone Qatar, added that the launch marks an important milestone in building Qatar’s digital resilience and advancing its secure digital economy ambitions.
Expanding the API Ecosystem
Qatar’s operators plan to introduce additional identity and fraud-prevention APIs in 2026, reinforcing the country’s long-term commitment to digital security.
The initiative aligns with the global GSMA Open Gateway programme, now supported by more than 80 operator groups representing 292 networks and over 80% of global mobile connections. The CAMARA-standardised APIs are available through the Linux Foundation’s open-source repository, enabling developers worldwide to build digital services that work seamlessly across devices, countries, and operators.
