# What is Embedded Client Authentication?

Clickatell's Embedded Client Authentication feature enables you to use your existing identity providers (IDPs) to authenticate customers and allow them to engage securely with services on your internal platforms.

Embedded Client Authentication makes use of the [OAuth](#how-does-oauth-work) protocol.

{% hint style="info" %}
Embedded Client Authentication is available on the [**Interact** ](https://www.clickatell.com/products/interact/)and [**Transact** ](https://www.clickatell.com/transact/)packages and is supported on [**Chat Flow**](https://clickatell.gitbook.io/flow/user-facing-interactions/input-nodes/oauth-request) and [**Chat Desk**](https://clickatell.gitbook.io/chat-desk/agent-chat-desk/authenticate-customers) via these channels: 

* SMS
* WhatsApp
  {% endhint %}

## **How does OAuth work?**

OAuth is an open authorization protocol that uses authorization tokens to request and receive permission from end-users to access specific data. 

It allows customers to authenticate (i.e., verify their identity) and authorize access to data, without ever sharing or exposing their passwords. 

## Benefits of using Clickatell's Embedded Client Authentication

By authenticating your customers with Embedded Client Authentication, you get the benefit of:

* **Flexibility:** You can use any IDP of your choice.
* **Convenience:** Customers can grant permission to access their data directly from the messaging channel.
* **Security:** Passwords are never revealed, so your customers are protected from fraudulent activities.
* **Peace of mind:** Customers must authenticate with the correct credentials. This means you can verify that customers are who they say they are before sharing sensitive data. 
* **Time-saving configuration:** Clickatell products are no-code platforms, so the [setup of Embedded Client Authentication](/embedded-client-authentication-user-guide/configuration/use-embedded-client-authentication.md) is simple and straightforward.


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