> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guides.clickatell.com/chat-desk/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guides.clickatell.com/chat-desk/agent-desk/authenticate-customers.md).

# Authenticate customers

Client authentication using OAuth 2.0 allows agents in Chat Desk to authenticate their customers before they perform certain operations to protect them from fraudulent activities.

{% hint style="info" %}
Clickatell will assist you in setting up your desired Identity Providers via the Clickatell Portal. 
{% endhint %}

## Use the OAuth extension

1. Click the *Extension* (puzzle) icon. 
2. In the panel on the right, select the OAuth configuration (IDP) you want the customer to use to authenticate themself. 

{% hint style="success" %}
All enabled Identity Providers (IDPs) [set up in the Clickatell Portal ](https://clickatell.gitbook.io/embedded-client-authentication-user-guide/configure-and-update-an-identity-provider-idp)will automatically pull through to this list in Chat Desk. 
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="/files/sGOtE1yMwkLlj9a0tEg0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

3. An authentication request is sent to the customer as a URL. Clicking this link opens the login (authentication) page of the selected IDP.&#x20;
4. Once the customer enters their details and is authenticated successfully, they are directed back to the channel they were engaging on.

<figure><img src="/files/1JfYZBz1xGM8AQps5XNw" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

5. The outcome of the authentication is shown in the chat window.

<figure><img src="/files/RGiOEZdPMPLdmezf1RKO" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>