The “kill switch” would enable customers to deactivate their bank accounts and the application access should they notice something peculiar or believe that they have been scammed.

Bukit Aman police secretary Noorsiah Saaduddin said the system was being used in other countries, including Singapore.

“The kill switch initiative will be introduced by Bank Negara so that the public can prevent scammers or any unauthorised party from accessing their bank accounts.

“The police fully support the initiative. The kill switch is a self-service security feature that enables you to protect your funds from online scams and enhances your online banking security.

“If you suspect that you are a victim of a scam, you can use the kill switch to temporarily deactivate your bank account,” she said in a statement.

Noorsiah also advised the public to be alert and careful when receiving calls or messages from unknown sources, adding that they should not share their personal information or bank account details.

Victims should immediately contact the bank or National Scam Response Centre at 997 if they suspect that they have been scammed.

She also urged members of the public to check the bank accounts and phone numbers involved in such crimes through the https://semakmule.rmp.gov.my website.