Malaysia has introduced stricter rules on prepaid SIM cards as part of a broader effort to tackle scams and identity misuse.
Under new regulations announced by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), individuals in Malaysia can now register a maximum of five prepaid SIM cards with each telecommunications provider. The rule took effect in February 2026 and is aimed at reducing the misuse of mobile numbers in scam operations.
Authorities say limiting the number of SIM cards linked to each person will make it harder for fraud syndicates to run large networks of phone numbers used for phishing messages, fake accounts and other online scams.
How the New SIM Card Limit Works
Malaysian citizens and residents holding MyKad, MyTentera, MyPR or MyKAS can register up to five prepaid SIM cards per telecommunications provider. This means users who subscribe to several telcos could still own multiple SIM cards across different networks.
For example, if a user registers with four different telecommunications companies, they could potentially hold up to 20 prepaid SIM cards in total.
For non-Malaysians, the limit is stricter. Foreign workers, students and tourists are allowed to register only two prepaid SIM cards per telco.
MCMC has also clarified that individuals who registered more SIM cards before February 26 will not be affected by the new rule.
Stricter Registration and Verification
Alongside the new limit, authorities are also tightening the SIM registration process.
All prepaid SIM cards must now be registered before they can be activated, and users must provide original identification documents when registering.
Identity verification may also involve biometric authentication, such as fingerprint verification for Malaysians or facial recognition for foreigners.
These measures are part of a wider framework aimed at protecting consumers from scams, identity theft and unauthorised SIM registrations, while ensuring mobile services remain accessible to legitimate users.
Here Is How You Can Prevent Scammers From Using Your Name for Prepaid SIM Cards
Alongside the new rules, authorities are also reminding the public to stay alert during SIM registration.
Scammers sometimes use other people’s identities to register phone numbers, which can later be used for fraud. Here are some important steps you can take to protect yourself.
Never Let Someone Register a SIM Card on Your Behalf
One common trick used by scammers is offering to help people register SIM cards quickly.
They may claim they can speed up the process or ask you to send your personal details.
Do not do this.
SIM cards must be registered directly by the user through official channels, such as a telco’s service centre, official website, mobile app or authorised dealer.
Never allow strangers or agents to register a SIM card using your identity.
Never Share Your Personal Documents
Scammers may try to obtain copies of your MyKad, passport, MyDigital ID details or One Time Password (OTP).
These documents should never be shared with unknown individuals or unofficial agents.
Your identification documents should only be provided directly to the telecommunications provider or its authorised dealer during registration.
Always Use Official Telco Channels
When registering a prepaid SIM card, make sure the process is done through official platforms.
This includes a telco’s service centre, official mobile app, website or authorised dealer.
During registration, you may also be required to verify your identity through biometric authentication, such as fingerprint or facial recognition. This step helps ensure the SIM card is registered under the correct person.
Check If SIM Cards Are Registered Under Your Name
Many people do not realise that their identity may have been used to register phone numbers without their knowledge.
Telcos now provide a free way for users to check how many prepaid SIM cards are registered under their name.
If you find a number that you did not register, contact your telco immediately so it can be investigated and removed.
Extra Safeguards Have Been Introduced
Additional protections have also been introduced during SIM registration.
For example, when your MyKad is recorded during registration, the copy must include a special watermark. This prevents the document from being reused to register other SIM cards.
If you later request a SIM card replacement, the telco will also need to verify your identity through biometric authentication or MyDigital ID.
A Small Step That Could Reduce Scams
Phone numbers now play a central role in the digital world. They are used for banking alerts, social media verification, messaging services and online accounts.
Because of this, scammers often rely on large numbers of SIM cards to run fraud schemes.
The new rules and safety measures aim to make that more difficult. For users, protecting personal information and registering SIM cards only through official channels can help prevent identity misuse and reduce the risk of scams.
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