Malaysia Rules Out Mandatory ID Checks For Dating App Users

Malaysia has ruled out mandatory identity verification for dating app users for now, instead opting for a broader approach to online safety that includes stronger platform safeguards, scam detection and public awareness.

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said identity checks could help address fraudulent accounts but would not eliminate scams. Criminals can also use stolen identities, compromised accounts, mule accounts and social engineering to deceive users.

The comments follow data showing the scale of romance scams affecting Malaysians. According to figures reported by the New Straits Times, 462 people lost a combined RM32.7 million to scams originating from people they met through dating platforms between January 2022 and June 2026. More than 70% of those victims were aged between 21 and 40.

Rather than immediately asking victims for money, scam networks often build relationships over time before directing targets towards fraudulent investment opportunities, fake trading platforms or cryptocurrency schemes.

Teo said the government views romance scams as a wider cross-platform issue rather than one confined to dating services. Victims may initially meet scammers on dating apps before conversations move to social media, messaging platforms or other private channels.

Malaysia is also reviewing measures used in other markets, including identity verification, age assurance and account-integrity requirements. Teo said any potential measures would need to be assessed for effectiveness, proportionality, privacy implications and compatibility with Malaysian law.

Financial institutions are another part of the response, with banks expected to strengthen fraud detection, identify suspicious transactions and intervene before funds are transferred. The National Scam Response Centre also supports efforts to limit financial losses after suspected fraud occurs.