Online gambling is not a new issue in this country; it’s a recurring problem every year. The government still struggles to handle this issue, as shown by the growing number of people addicted to online gambling. Online gambling entraps various social groups, from the upper-middle to the lower-middle class.
Online gambling, commonly referred to as slots, is a form of gambling conducted online. It can be accessed anytime, anywhere, and is very easy to play, requiring only a smartphone and internet connection. This accessibility makes it easy for people to get trapped and challenging to escape from this dangerous zone.
The problem is not limited to civilians; even government officials have been caught up in online gambling. This highlights the severity of slot online gambling, as officials who should be protecting the public are also falling into its trap.
The Ministry of Communication and Information (Kominfo) released data showing that the average age of online gamblers is 17-20 years, which is concerning. The youth, who are the nation’s hope for progress, are instead becoming involved in online gambling, reducing their motivation to work and study. This can disrupt the mental health of young people engaged in online gambling, impacting their future.
Police Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko from the Public Relations Division of the Indonesian National Police stated that the number of online gamblers in 2024 is projected to decrease compared to the previous year. In 2023, there were 1,196 cases with 1,967 victims. As of April 2024, there have been 792 cases, with 1,158 suspects. This data shows a significant decrease in the number of cases and suspects involved in online gambling activities over this period.
These online gambling perpetrators also cause significant disruption in education. Two universities’ websites were hacked: Universitas Jember and Universitas Muhammadiyah Jember. The security systems of both universities couldn’t withstand the hacking attacks by online gambling perpetrators.
A university student identified as AFS from Medan, North Sumatra, was detained by police from the I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport precinct in Bali after being found naked by the roadside. It’s suspected that AFS’s actions were triggered by depression from losing in online gambling.
This incident has attracted attention, highlighting the adverse effects of online gambling addiction. AFS, still a student, likely experienced intense mental pressure, leading to such an extreme action. This arrest is expected to serve as a warning about the dangers of online gambling, especially for young people vulnerable to its negative impact.
Online gambling has numerous negative impacts, including financial, mental health, and social problems. Financially, players can lose significant amounts of money, leading to debt and bankruptcy. Mental health is also affected, with increased risks of addiction, stress, depression, and anxiety. Socially, online gambling can damage personal and family relationships, as the time and money spent on gambling sites reduce the quality of social interactions. Additionally, online gambling often involves illegal activities such as money laundering and fraud, which can lead to legal consequences. Thus, online gambling poses serious risks to individuals and society.
The prevalence of online gambling in Indonesia has led the government to impose penalties under the Information and Electronic Transactions Law (UU ITE), specifically Article 27, paragraph 2. This article states that any person who intentionally and without authority distributes, transmits, or makes accessible electronic information related to a gambling program can face legal sanctions. Violators of this provision face up to six years in prison and/or a fine of up to one billion rupiah.
The enforcement of Article 27, paragraph 2 of the UU ITE aims to reduce the increasing prevalence of online gambling in society. This law enforcement targets not only gamblers but also online gambling platform providers. With these strict penalties, it’s hoped that perpetrators will be deterred, reducing the proliferation of online gambling, which harms various aspects of society, including economic, social, and mental health sectors.
Knowledge of this law is essential for the public to understand the serious consequences of participating in online gambling. Education about the dangers and legal consequences of online gambling should also be intensified, through media campaigns and school-based education.
Avoiding online gambling requires commitment and a personal strategy, as government policies alone won’t fully succeed without personal effort. First, recognize that slot gacor hari ini online gambling is a problem affecting one’s life. Block access to gambling sites and apps by deleting them from devices and using site-blocking software. Seek support from groups like Gamblers Anonymous or therapists experienced in treating gambling addiction. Find new hobbies or activities that can distract from the urge to gamble, such as exercising, reading, or spending time with friends and family. Manage finances carefully, set a strict budget, and avoid carrying excess cash or credit cards that could make gambling easier.