The government took swift action to prevent the circulation of online gambling funds through mass blocking
Jakarta – The government has demonstrated its full commitment to eradicating online gambling by en masse blocking dormant accounts and digital wallets (e-wallets) suspected of being involved in illegal transactions. This measure aims to cut off the flow of illegal funds, which have been the primary source of online gambling operations.
The Head of the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK), Ivan Yustiavandana, stated that his office will take decisive action by blocking e-wallets if any indication of involvement in online gambling is found. According to PPATK data, online gambling deposits via e-wallets reached a staggering Rp 1.6 trillion, spanning 12.6 million transactions.
“We have also handled many e-wallet cases,” Ivan emphasized.
According to Ivan, this blocking not only targets e-wallets that are actively conducting transactions, but also those that are dormant. He explained that digital wallets and fintech accounts are handled differently than idle accounts at conventional banks.
Previously, the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) had implemented a policy of blocking accounts that had been inactive for three months, noting that more than 140,000 dormant accounts had been inactive for over 10 years. “Many dormant accounts are misused for illegal activities, from buying and selling accounts to money laundering,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Assistant Deputy for Coordination of Transnational and Extraordinary Crimes, Police Brigadier General Adhi Satya Perkasa, stated that the government, through the Coordinating Ministry for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs (Kemenko Polkam), has established an Online Gambling Eradication Coordination Desk. This desk serves as a cross-agency coordination platform to strengthen synergy in combating this illegal practice.
“As a step forward, the Coordinating Ministry for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs is encouraging increased public education, strengthened regulations, international collaboration, and safeguarding cyberspace from negative content. Regional governments are also reminded to remain vigilant and actively participate in preventing system infiltration by online gambling content,” said Adhi.
He emphasized that the success of eradicating online gambling does not only depend on law enforcement, but also requires the active participation of all elements of the nation.
“Collective action is needed to ensure our digital spaces remain healthy, safe, and productive,” he added.
The government’s decisive action through this mass blocking is expected to significantly reduce the circulation of online gambling funds and act as a deterrent to perpetrators. Furthermore, this policy serves as a strong signal that the government will not allow illegal activities that undermine public morals and the economy.
