Cover image via Bernama
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Ever worry that a scammer might have registered a SIM card under your MyKad?
It's a valid concern. For years, scammers have used stolen or misused ICs to register "mule" SIM cards for scam calls and fraud.
In fact, it was reported that the number of scam calls in Malaysia in 2024 reached a staggering 2.98 million calls, nearly doubling from 1.63 million in 2023.
Starting today, 1 December 2025, that loophole is closing.
Malaysian telecommunications companies (telcos) are rolling out MyDigital ID integration in their apps in coordination with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA).
The move aims to curb scams, impersonation, and identity fraud, which often exploit unverified or misused SIM cards.
Here's what's changing:
- See every number linked to your ID
Log in to your telco app, and you'll be able to view all prepaid numbers registered under your MyKad. Anything that's not yours? Flag it as fraudulent, and it can be blocked.- No more fake SIM registrations
Buying a new prepaid number now requires verification via MyDigital ID. That means physical presence and biometric checks. Photocopied ICs won't work anymore.- Secure, password-free logins
Telco apps will offer Single Sign-On via MyDigital ID. No more relying on passwords or SMS OTPs that can be phished.
NACSA CEO Dr Megat Zuhairy Megat Tajuddin said the rollout may vary across providers
"Some telcos may begin with a single component, others may implement two, and full adoption of all three will take place progressively over time.
"However, regardless of the combination, the purpose of this initiative is to ensure that scammers and fraudulent actors cannot exploit unverified SIM cards as an entry point for their criminal operations," he said.
Additionally, MyDigital ID does not store your data, track your activity, or collect new personal info. It simply confirms your identity against official National Registration Department (NRD) records whenever you log in.
What you should do:
Download the MyDigital ID app if you haven't already.
Check your telco app for the new features and verify your numbers.
Some providers may roll them out in stages.
