- Fraud prevention in location-dependent transactions for FinTech Services: For example, if a user attempts to add a new payee, change account security settings, or initiate a high-value transfer, the platform can verify whether the detected location of their mobile device is consistent with the expected usage region. If the request originates from a high-risk or unexpected location the system can enforce additional security checks or block the transaction to prevent potential fraud.
- Fraud prevention for Media, Entertainment, Content-based Services, and Retail Services: For example, if a user attempts to access premium digital content, redeem a location-based promotion, or complete a high-value purchase, the platform can verify whether the detected location of their mobile device matches the expected region. If the request originates from an unusual or restricted location the system can block access or require additional verification to prevent unauthorized use or fraudulent transactions.
- Service Personalization for location-dependent features of Services (retail, tourism, travel and hospitality, content-based services, etc.): For example, if a user accesses a streaming platform, a retail app, or a travel service, the system can use their detected location to tailor content or features. If the user is in a specific venue or city, they may access to region-specific services, enhancing engagement and customer experience.
- Location-based marketing and advertising through mobile network location detection: For example, if a user enters a shopping district, an event venue, or a tourist area, brands and service providers can use their detected mobile network location to deliver targeted promotions, personalized advertisements, or exclusive location-based offers.
- Emergency Services: Providing accurate location information to emergency responders.
- Delivery Services: Confirming the location of a device to ensure accurate delivery of goods or services.
- Asset Tracking: Monitoring the location of valuable assets in real-time.
Location Retrieval
API Description
The “Location Retrieval” API provides the location of a mobile line as detected by the mobile network operator. The request can specify the maximum acceptable age of the location data, while the response delivers the detected location, represented as either a circle or a polygon, based on the available network data.
Use Cases
Benefits
- Stronger Security & Increased User Trust: For users, fraud prevention translates into greater confidence in the security of their accounts and personal data. For businesses, it reduces financial losses, enhances compliance with security regulations, and strengthens brand reputation.
- Reliable & Fraud-Resistant Location Intelligence: Mobile network location detection provides a trusted method for verifying geographic presence. This ensures fair access to region-locked content and secure transaction approvals. For businesses, it minimizes fraud risks, improves operational efficiency, and ensures compliance without additional friction for legitimate users. For users, it eliminates frustration from blocked services due to unreliable location detection.
- Seamless Personalization & Higher Engagement: Services can be dynamically adapted to users’ real-world locations, offering personalized content, exclusive in-store promotions, or premium features when they are at specific venues. This enhances the user experience, making interactions more relevant and convenient. For businesses, this drives engagement, boosts customer retention, and increases revenue by delivering the right offer at the right time.
- Operational efficiency for the API customer (cost savings).
API Portfolio: Location Services
SubProject Wiki: Device Location
(incl. how to meet the team)
API Wiki: Location Retrieval
API Repository: Device Location
API Repository Status: Incubating
API Status: Initial
API Version(s) and Release Date(s):
API availability: Information which APIs are available in which country and network, and how to get access can be found on the GSMA public launch status page.