New SIM Rules Take Effect As Telcos Adopt MyDigital ID Nationwide

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Telcos have begun integrating MyDigital ID into their mobile apps starting today, marking a nationwide shift in how SIM cards are verified and managed. The move is part of a larger push to reduce scam calls, impersonation cases and fraudulent SIM registrations — issues that continue to climb despite previous tightening of registration rules.

Under the new requirement, every telco will progressively adopt three security measures. The first lets users check all prepaid numbers registered under their MyKad and confirm which ones actually belong to them — a safeguard meant to stop scammers from using phone lines tied to stolen or misused identification.

Next, anyone buying a new prepaid SIM will need to verify it through their telco’s mobile app using MyDigital ID. The goal is to stop new numbers from being activated with someone else’s IC details, a loophole long exploited in scam operations.

The third feature adds an extra layer of protection inside telco apps themselves. Users can now choose to sign in with MyDigital ID instead of passwords or OTPs, reducing the risk of account takeovers and phishing attempts.

The National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA), which is overseeing the initiative with coordination support from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), said telcos will roll out these components in stages depending on their readiness. While the implementation timeline differs between providers, all are expected to adopt the system fully.

MyDigital ID’s verification process pulls directly from official records held by the National Registration Department, giving telcos a more reliable way to match users with their mobile numbers. According to MyDigital ID, almost three million scam calls were reported in 2024 — nearly double the previous year — underscoring the need for tighter identity checks across digital services.

The agency also addressed public concerns about privacy, saying MyDigital ID does not track users, store browsing data, or collect new information. It is used solely to confirm identity when a user chooses to log in.

For more details on how each provider is rolling out the features, users are advised to refer to their telco’s official website or support channels.