KUALA LUMPUR, Dec. 1 (Xinhua) -- Malaysians are benefiting from enhanced security as all telecommunications companies (telcos) have on Monday begun integrating MyDigital ID's identity verification technology into their mobile applications.
This nationwide initiative is designed to protect users from scam calls, cases of impersonation and identity fraud, which often rely on unverified or misused SIM cards, ensuring that every mobile number is linked to a verified, trusted digital identity.
Backed by the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) and coordinated by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, this measure consists of three key components, namely, verification of existing prepaid numbers, new SIM card registration, and single sign-on for secure app login.
According to NACSA chief executive Megat Zuhairy Megat Tajuddin, 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 added.
According to MyDigital ID chief executive officer Nik Hisham Nik Ibrahim, mobile numbers are frequently exploited for scams and identity fraud, and it was reported that the number of scam calls in Malaysia in 2024 reached a staggering 2.98 million in early this year, nearly doubling from 2023's 1.63 million.
"By using a legitimate digital identity, we can significantly reduce risks of such crimes, strengthen digital trust and safety whilst preventing leakages within the digital economy," he added. ■
