KUALA LUMPUR — It happens more often than many people realise.

Maybe you’re pulled over at a roadblock. Maybe police stop you during an operation at a shopping mall or perhaps an officer approaches you on the street asking a few questions.

Or you maybe one of the rare ones who’ve had a knock on your door.

Do you have to answer everything? Can they search your phone? What if they ask you to follow them to the police station?

Can police check your phone?

For many Malaysians, this is probably the first question that comes to mind.

The Malaysian Bar’s latest Red Book says police may inspect your mobile phone if they have a lawful reason to do so, such as when they reasonably suspect you’ve committed an offence, you’re being investigated, or you’ve been arrested.

If an officer asks to inspect your phone, don’t panic—but don’t be afraid to ask questions either.

Politely ask why your phone is being inspected and whether you’re being investigated or suspected of committing an offence.

Understanding why police are exercising that power can help you better understand your rights throughout the interaction.

A police officer stops you. What’s the first thing you should do?

First, stay calm.

If the officer is in uniform, make a mental note of their name and identification number. If they’re using a patrol car or motorcycle, note the vehicle registration number if you can.

If they’re not in uniform, politely ask to see their police authority card.

The colour tells you what authority they have:

Blue — Inspector and above.

Yellow — Officers below the rank of Inspector.

White — Reserve police.

Red — Suspended police officer with no police powers.

If possible, remember the officer’s name and identification number before the conversation continues.