Google to require verification for financial ads in Malaysia from April 14

 The financial services verification adds another layer of security and aims to curb scams.

Google said applications for the verification could be made through its compliance partner, G2, starting today. (EPA Images pic)

KUALA LUMPUR:

 Google has introduced the financial services verification (FSV), a new certification requirement for financial services advertisers targeting Malaysia, to curb financial scams.

In a statement, Google said the FSV adds a new layer of security to the existing financial products and services policy by ensuring that only legitimate, licensed financial service providers can reach users in Malaysia and run ads on Google’s platforms.

“Starting from April 14, select advertisers of financial products and services will be required to complete a verification process before they can run ads on Google’s platforms,” it said, reported Bernama.

It said applications for the verification could be made through its compliance partner, G2, starting today.

Google said as part of the verification process, financial services advertisers would need to demonstrate that they are authorised by Malaysian authorities, such as Bank Negara Malaysia, the Securities Commission and the Labuan Financial Services Authority.

Citing data from the home ministry, Google said financial scams were on the rise in Malaysia, with losses from financial fraud reaching RM2.77 billion in 2025 alone.

Google Malaysia country managing director Ben King said scammers were constantly evolving their tactics to evade detection.

“That’s why we are strengthening our defences to ensure only authorised financial providers can reach users on Google,” he said.

Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission managing director Karim Fakir Ali said the initiative was a critical step in preventing financial scams. - FMT