Improving Security for the Libyan E-Government Portal

A Multi-Factor Authentication Model Utilizing NID-SIM Linkage

Abstract

The expansion of digital services in Libya has created an urgent need to secure access to sensitive government portals. This study proposes an enhanced multi-factor authentication system within the Libyan e-Government Portal Project by leveraging the government’s policy of linking Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards to the National Identity Number (NID) database for all Libyan citizens' mobile phone users. This linkage adds another authentication layer as an identity verification factor, leveraging the solution to the multi-factor authentication (MFA) level, ensuring that only users with verified identities can register mobile numbers to receive one-time passwords (OTPs).
Furthermore, this research highlights the successful implementation of NID-SIM linkage by the Central Bank of Libya (CBL) within their Foreign Currency Management System (FCMS) authentication process, providing a practical demonstration of the effectiveness of this linkage. A comparative analysis of authentication methods shows that using OTP via SMS authentication with NID-SIM linkage is a secure approach, thereby ensuring the integrity of sensitive government services. The proposed system addresses the common challenges facing traditional two-factor authentication systems, thereby enhancing