Jakarta – Acting Director General of Digital Space Supervision of the Ministry of Communication and Digital (Kemkomdigi), Alexander Sabar, warned of the negative impacts of online gambling on society. According to him, online gambling not only harms the financial aspect but also endangers the mental health and security of the personal data of its players.
“Gambling is not only financially detrimental, but also endangers the mental health of its players. In addition, online gambling threatens the security of their personal data,” said Alexander in Jakarta.
He explained that online gambling addiction can cause stress, anxiety, and depression, especially when players experience big losses in a short time. Alexander also highlighted the risks to the security of players’ personal data.
“Many illegal gambling sites do not have clear privacy policies, so player data such as mobile numbers, email addresses and bank account numbers are vulnerable to misuse,” he said.
Meanwhile, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Muhaimin Iskandar, emphasized that online gambling is not only an individual problem, but also has the potential to create new social and economic burdens for the country.
“Online gambling creates new poverty that damages the economic structure of families and communities. Digital literacy is a key tool to combat false narratives about the benefits of online gambling. We must build collective awareness that this is a dangerous trap,” Muhaimin explained.
Muhaimin added that online gambling also destroys the social structure of society.
“Online gambling addiction can isolate a person from family, increase psychological stress, and damage personal relationships,” he stressed.
The government through the Family Hope Program (PKH) and community leaders continue to actively conduct socialization regarding the dangers of online gambling. This socialization aims to raise awareness that online gambling is a form of fraud designed to trap players with unrealistic promises of winning.
Psychologist Ratih Ibrahim emphasized the importance of the family’s role in helping online gambling victims.
“The family has a very important role in the recovery process of the victim. Emotional support, listening without judgment, and providing encouragement are significant first steps,” said Ratih.
However, emotional support alone is not enough. Families must also take technical steps such as managing the victim’s finances, preventing access to funds that can be used for gambling, and involving the victim in positive activities such as sports or social activities.
“Emotional support alone is not enough, the family must also take technical steps, prevent funds that can be used for gambling, and involve victims in positive activities or social activities,” added Ratih.
Likewise, Psychologist Sani Budiantini added that rehabilitation of online gambling victims requires a holistic approach, including psychological therapy, medication, and family support.
“Rehabilitation takes at least three months. This approach helps victims neutralize the effects of addiction and return to a healthier life,” Sani concluded.