Banks across Malaysia say outdated browsers and mobile operating systems are leaving customers exposed, prompting tighter controls and possible transaction blocks in the name of digital security.
Malaysia’s banking sector has issued a clear warning to customers: keep your browsers and mobile operating systems updated, or risk facing restrictions on your banking access.
The message comes as cyber threats grow more sophisticated, targeting users who rely on older, unsupported software that no longer receives security patches.
Why banks are drawing a hard line now
In a joint statement released on Monday, the Association of Banks in Malaysia and the Association of Islamic Banking and Financial Institutions Malaysia said customers using outdated browsers or mobile operating systems are significantly more vulnerable to fraud and cyberattacks.
Devices running unsupported software no longer receive critical security fixes from developers such as Apple, Google, and Mozilla.
That gap, banks say, creates an easy entry point for scammers.
One short sentence sums it up. Old software is low-hanging fruit for criminals.
Restrictions may follow for outdated devices
The warning isn’t just advisory.
Banks said they may introduce extra verification steps, lower transaction limits, or impose other restrictions on accounts accessed through older browsers or operating systems.
In some cases, transactions originating from unsupported versions could be proactively blocked.
According to the joint statement, these measures are meant to protect customers, even if they feel inconvenient at first. The goal is simple: stop fraud before it happens.
For users who ignore updates, that could mean slower transactions or sudden interruptions.
Which browsers are considered unsafe
The banking groups also named specific browser versions that are now considered insecure.
According to the statement, the following versions and earlier no longer meet minimum security standards:
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Google Chrome version 140
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Firefox version 141
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Safari version 18.5
Customers were advised to check and update their browsers immediately, either through browser settings or by visiting browser-update.org to confirm they are running the latest version.
One sentence here matters. Falling just one version behind can make a difference.
Mobile operating systems under scrutiny
It’s not just browsers under the spotlight.
Banks also urged customers to update their phone operating systems, pointing out that mobile banking apps are only as secure as the system they run on.
Currently, Android versions 13 and above are supported, while iOS versions 18 and above receive full security updates.
Customers can check their device status by heading to system or software update settings on Android, or the general settings menu on iPhones.
Those unsure about long-term support can also consult endoflife.date, which tracks when operating systems stop receiving security patches.
One sentence stands out. Unsupported software quietly becomes unsafe software.
What this means for users with older phones
For customers using aging devices, the message is tougher.
Banks recommended upgrading to newer phones that can receive regular security updates. Without those updates, even the safest banking apps can’t fully protect accounts.
This recommendation may frustrate users who feel their devices still work fine. But from a security perspective, banks argue there’s little choice.
Cybercriminals often target outdated systems precisely because they know the weaknesses will never be fixed.
The wider scam problem banks are trying to curb
This push comes amid rising concern over online scams in Malaysia, ranging from phishing attacks to account takeovers and fraudulent transfers.
Banks reminded customers to activate the “Kill Switch” feature, which allows accounts to be frozen quickly if suspicious activity is detected.
They also urged victims or potential victims to contact the National Scam Response Centre at 997 or reach out directly to their bank’s fraud hotline.
Speed matters in these cases. Minutes can mean money.
A transition period, but expectations are clear
The banking groups said customers will be given guidance during the transition, including clear timelines for browser and operating system requirements.
Still, the direction is firm.
As digital banking becomes the default, security standards are rising with it. What passed as acceptable a few years ago no longer does.
One sentence captures the shift. Convenience is no longer an excuse for weak security.
Why this matters beyond Malaysia
While the warning is local, the issue is global.
Banks worldwide are tightening controls as fraud grows more automated and cross-border. Malaysia’s move mirrors similar steps taken by financial institutions in Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia.
For customers, the takeaway is practical rather than technical.
If your phone or browser keeps asking for updates, it’s not being annoying. It’s trying to keep you safe.
And in today’s online banking environment, that protection starts with staying current.
