Indonesia intensified its crackdown on online gambling on April 13, 2026, ordering the blocking of another 1,000 bank accounts, bringing the total to 33,252 frozen accounts since 2024. The action was led by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) under Dian Ediana Rae, in coordination with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs headed by Meutya Hafid, and the financial intelligence unit PPATK led by Ivan Yustiavandana.
Indonesia does not regulate gambling—it prohibits it entirely. The legal framework is based on the Criminal Code (Articles 303 and 303 bis), Law No. 7 of 1974 on Gambling Control, and the updated ITE Law (2024), which imposes penalties of up to 10 years in prison for distributing or facilitating online gambling content. There are no licensed casinos or iGaming operators, meaning no formal taxation exists for the sector.
Despite the ban, the illegal market remains significant. In 2025, online gambling transactions reached Rp155 trillion (≈US$9.27 billion), with the government estimating US$8 billion annually in capital outflows linked to gambling. While volumes declined from 2024, the sector continues to pose economic and social risks.
Enforcement operates across three levels. First, digital blocking, with millions of illegal sites and content removed. Second, financial surveillance, where OJK requires banks to apply Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) and report suspicious transactions. Third, AI-driven intelligence, using machine learning to trace payment infrastructure and detect gambling networks.
Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs headed by Meutya Hafid
Banks are central to the strategy, responsible for monitoring accounts, executing freezes, and reporting to regulators. Non-compliance has led to sanctions and license revocations.
The message is clear: Indonesia is not moving toward regulation but toward full eradication of online gambling. The near-term outlook points to increased enforcement, tighter control over fintech and payment systems, and a deeper crackdown on the illegal market.
