Those who order from Amazon will find that for certain orders, a one-time password is required. But what is it and what do you need it for? MeinMMO explains what you need to know.
What is a one-time password? The one-time password is a six-digit numeric code that you need when Amazon delivers certain packages to you. You will receive the code shortly before delivery via email and also displayed within the app.
If you order items of high value, you will need a password
When is a one-time password needed? Generally, you will need a one-time password on Amazon when placing orders with a very high value. So, when you order an expensive laptop or a new graphics card.
If you have the package delivered directly from Amazon, you must provide the Amazon delivery person with the one-time password upon receiving your package. Without the password, the Amazon delivery person cannot hand over the package to you.
What are the advantages and disadvantages? The delivery person cannot simply leave a package for which a one-time password is required at your doorstep.
If you are not at home, the delivery person cannot deliver the package to you unless you provide the one-time password to someone else who will accept the package for you. But without the password, the package will not be delivered, no matter how many times you assure that you are the recipient.
When do you not need a password? You do not need a one-time password when you have the package delivered to a parcel station or a parcel shop instead. Here, the additional layer of security is then your account with DHL, through which you retrieve your package from the parcel station.
No protection against fake products: Unfortunately, the one-time password does not protect against fraudsters. Because even though the shipping and reception are intended to be better protected, a fake can still be in the package.
This happened to a family in the UK who only wanted to order a graphics card on Amazon and subsequently had more than enough trouble: Gamer buys graphics card on Amazon, receives fake product – seller denies refund until return of the “real” item
