Indonesia

Indonesia has intensified its crackdown on illegal online gambling, with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) ordering the blocking of 1,000 additional bank accounts, bringing the total to over 33,000 since 2024. The move reflects a coordinated national effort involving multiple agencies to curb the financial infrastructure supporting illicit betting. Authorities argue that online gambling poses systemic risks to the country’s financial stability and broader economy.

Indonesia’s online gambling sector recorded a sharp contraction in 2025, with total transaction volumes declining by approximately 20 percent compared with the previous year. The downturn follows an intensified nationwide crackdown targeting illegal digital betting platforms, payment channels, and promotional networks. Authorities have strengthened surveillance, blocked thousands of websites, and tightened financial monitoring systems to curb unauthorized gambling activity.

Indonesia’s online gambling sector is witnessing rapid growth, driven by rising internet penetration, digital payment adoption, and evolving consumer preferences for virtual entertainment. While traditional gambling remains tightly regulated, offshore platforms are attracting Indonesian players with diverse offerings, from slot machines to live dealer tables. Industry experts highlight both the opportunities and challenges tied to this trend: economic potential on one hand, and legal, social, and security concerns on the other.