Getting a new phone is exciting…until you realise you have to set up all your banking apps again.
Unlike regular apps, most banking platforms tie your account to one authorised device for security reasons, which means switching phones often involves unlinking your old device, reactivating security features, and sometimes even heading to the ATM.
To save you the panic, here’s a guide on how several Malaysian banks officially say you can move your banking apps to a new phone.
Don’t wipe your old phone yet
If your old phone is still accessible, keep it around until the migration is complete.
Many banks make the process significantly easier when you can still access your previous device to approve or remove the device binding.
CIMB
If you still have your old phone:
- Open the CIMB OCTO App
- Go to Services
- Tap Manage Device
- Tap the trash bin icon to deactivate the old device
- Download the app on your new phone
- Complete First Time Login on the new device
If your old phone is lost or inaccessible, CIMB says you’ll need to contact customer service first before proceeding.
Maybank / MAE
- Download the MAE App on your new phone
- Register for Secure2u again in the app
- Visit a Maybank ATM
- Insert your debit/credit card and PIN
- Select Secure2u Activation
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Wait for the minimum 12-hour activation period
RHB
If your old phone is still available:
- Open the RHB Mobile Banking App
- Go to Settings
- Select Security
- Tap Authorised Device
- Choose Remove Device
- Download the app on your new phone
- Log in and link the new device
- Activate Secure Plus at an ATM
- Wait for the cooling period before transacting
If your old phone is unavailable, RHB says you can still link the new device and activate at ATM, or contact customer support for assistance.
GX Bank
- Open the GX Bank app on your old phone
- Remove or unlink the current device
- Download the app on your new phone
- Log in and complete identity verification
- Wait through any applicable cooling period before transacting
If you no longer have access to the old phone, GX Bank advises contacting support.
HSBC
- Open the HSBC app on your old phone
- Go to Profile / Manage Devices
- Remove the old device / Mobile Secure Key
- Download the app on your new phone
- Set up Mobile Secure Key again
- Wait through the cooling period before using certain functions
UOB
According to UOB, switching devices is usually simpler:
- Download the UOB TMRW App on your new phone
- Log in as usual
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Secure PIN / UOB Acess
- Old device will be deregistered automatically after setup
A common security measure across banks is a 12-hour cooling period after registering a new device.
This means you may be able to log in immediately but transactions/approvals could be temporarily restricted.
