By: Andika Pratama )*
The rapid development of information technology in Indonesia has brought many conveniences in various aspects of life, especially in the digital economy sector. However, this progress has also opened up loopholes for increasingly rampant and complex cybercrime. One form of technology abuse that is very disturbing is online gambling. Most recently, the modus operandi used by Online Gambling perpetrators has become increasingly sophisticated, even misusing digital payment systems such as QRIS, which were originally created to support financial inclusion and ease of MSME transactions.
The Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) recently revealed that MSMEs’ QRIS is now being used as a means of collecting funds from Online Gambling transactions. In practice, the perpetrators disguise themselves as small business owners such as food stalls or grocery stores, but their transaction profiles are unusual—operating until midnight and receiving transaction amounts reaching hundreds of millions to billions of rupiah. This is an early indicator of suspicious behavior and reveals the perpetrators’ disguise.
The QRIS system, which is a product of collaboration between Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Payment System Association, was actually designed to make it easier for people to make non-cash transactions, especially for the micro and small business segment. However, this convenience and flexibility are actually misused by irresponsible parties to disguise illegal fund flows. This mode further proves that online gambling perpetrators are very adaptive to technology and continue to look for ways to avoid monitoring by authorities.
PPATK Public Relations, Natsir Kongah, emphasized that the main challenge in eradicating online gambling lies not only in the technical or technological aspects, but also in the high demand from the community itself. As long as there is still a market and enthusiasts, bookies will continue to experiment with various methods to penetrate the supervision system. Therefore, the eradication of online gambling must be carried out holistically, not only in terms of legal enforcement, but also public education and strengthening the transaction supervision system.
Bank Indonesia itself has taken firm steps against the misuse of the payment system for online gambling activities. From August 2024 to April 2025, 19,606 online gambling sites have been blocked. Not only that, 23,852 accounts used for suspicious activities have also been frozen. This is part of BI’s real action in supporting the eradication of Online Gambling as a whole. In fact, BI does not hesitate to impose sanctions on Payment Service Providers (PJP) who are negligent in implementing the principle of prudence towards their users.
Bank Indonesia emphasized that Online Gambling is a false shortcut that not only violates the law, but also robs the future of the perpetrators. The blocking policy and strict sanctions that are applied are a real form of protection for the community from economic and social losses due to online gambling practices.
Furthermore, the threat of Online Gambling does not only target adults. The younger generation, especially students, are also starting to become targets of exploitation through online games that are infiltrated with betting features. Jambi Police Chief Inspector General Pol Krisno H. Siregar reminded the importance of the role of students in responding to the use of technology wisely. He emphasized that technology in the hands of the younger generation can be a productive tool if used positively, but can also be a gateway to destruction if misused for negative activities such as gambling.
The anti-Online Gambling Declaration initiated by high school students throughout Jambi City is an initial step that deserves appreciation. This is proof that collective awareness among young people can be formed and directed towards constructive behavior. Students must be empowered as agents of change, not only for themselves, but also to protect the social environment from the destructive influence of online gambling.
In a broader context, collaboration between institutions is the main key. The Online Gambling Eradication Task Force consisting of BI, PPATK, the Ministry of Communication and Information, the Police, and banking and fintech parties must further strengthen coordination. In addition to repressive measures, a preventive approach through digital literacy, public campaigns, and financial education is needed to reduce demand for Online Gambling.
The role of parents, teachers, and community leaders is no less important. Supervision of gadget use at home and school must be tightened, while building open communication and educating children about the dangers of destructive Online Gambling. Technology cannot be avoided, but it must be mastered and directed for the good.
The government also needs to review the regulations governing the digital payment and transaction system sector. Stricter policies are needed on
