By: Sari Dewi Anggraini
The rapid development of technology and the internet has provided many benefits to society, from easy access to information to online services that make everyday life easier. However, behind this convenience, there is an increasingly worrying threat, namely online gambling. Increasingly easy access via smartphones makes people, including children, vulnerable to its negative impacts. Therefore, being wise in using social media is the key to avoiding the trap of online gambling.
Online gambling now uses various ways to attract the attention of social media users. According to the Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, viral content to memes are often used as a tool to insert invitations to gamble. “Our digital space is colored by negative content, including online gambling promotions. Collaborative steps are very important to seize this space from bad influences,” she said.
Online gambling advertisements are often disguised in the form of entertainment, memes, or viral videos. With the lure of big bonuses and easy winning opportunities, this content is designed to tempt users, especially the younger generation who are active on social media. In fact, some online gambling sites disguise themselves as seemingly harmless games, but actually insert betting elements into them. This, as conveyed by Meutya, is a serious threat that requires joint attention.
In addition to financial risks, online gambling also poses a threat to the security of personal data. Deputy for Analysis and Examination of PPATK, Danang Tri Hartono, revealed that in the third quarter of 2024, public deposits for online gambling reached IDR 43 trillion, up from IDR 34 trillion in 2023. “Most of these funds were diverted to cryptocurrencies, making transactions increasingly difficult to track,” Danang explained.
He also added that players’ personal data, such as phone numbers, emails, and bank accounts, are often misused by online gambling syndicates. This emphasizes the importance of digital literacy so that people are more aware of the potential dangers.
Online gambling does not only target adults, but also children. Based on PPATK data, more than 80 thousand children under the age of 10 have been exposed to online gambling content through games on their devices. Kemkomdigi urges parents to be more active in supervising their children’s digital activities. “With awareness and cooperation between the government and the community, we can protect children from the dangers of online gambling,” said Meutya Hafid.
Digital supervision by parents is key to ensuring that children grow and develop in a safe and healthy environment. In addition, education on digital literacy must be improved, so that children understand the risks of negative content they encounter online.
Facing this challenge, digital financial literacy is one of the main solutions. By understanding the use of online financial services, people can recognize dangerous practices such as online gambling. In addition, limiting access to certain digital platforms can also help prevent exposure to negative content.
Kemkomdigi also invites the public to change their consumerist mindset to be more productive. Shifting focus from excessive consumption to investment, as well as avoiding consumer debt, can be preventive measures to avoid the temptation of online gambling. “These steps are important so that the public can avoid the negative impacts of digital technology developments,” added Meutya.
In its efforts to eradicate online gambling, Kemkomdigi has taken various firm actions. Until December 2024, the government has successfully blocked more than 5.3 million contents related to online gambling. One real example is the blocking of Instagram accounts such as @mimin_storyy, @awcogans, and @meme.kocakk25 which promote online gambling sites.
Meutya Hafid emphasized that the government continues to strive to eliminate these practices from the digital space. However, these efforts require public support. Collective awareness to report negative content and be careful in interacting on social media is essential.
The role of parents is also an important key in preventing children from being exposed to online gambling content. Based on data released by the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK), more than 80 thousand children under the age of 10 have been exposed to online gambling through various games on their gadgets. Therefore, parents need to be more active in supervising their children’s digital activities, ensuring that they use technology in a safe and healthy way. Minister Meutya emphasized that digital supervision must be a priority so that the younger generation is protected from the negative influence of online gambling.
Online gambling is a real threat in the digital era. With various strategies used, from hidden advertising to misuse of personal data, online gambling continues to try to ensnare society. To combat this threat, the active role of the government, society, and parents is needed.
Being wise in using social media, increasing digital literacy, and supporting the government’s firm steps are the keys to protecting yourself and your family from the negative impacts of online gambling. With the cooperation of all parties, the digital space can become a safer and more positive place for future generations.
*) Contributor SingkawangPos
