20 Illegal Online Lenders to Avoid Amid Instant Cash Promises

• Neo Bank

The Task Force for Eradication of Illegal Financial Activities (Satgas PASTI) has identified hundreds of illegal financial activities circulating in the digital space since early 2026. Besides illegal online lending, the task force has also uncovered various modes of financial transaction fraud increasingly targeting the public through social media and messaging apps.

The phenomenon of illegal financial activities remains a serious threat amid growing digital service usage by the public. Perpetrators exploit various online platforms to offer quick loans, high-return investments, and illegal cryptocurrency trading without proper licenses.

According to recent data, Satgas PASTI found a total of 953 illegal entities, comprising 951 illegal online lenders and two fraudulent investment schemes between 1 January and 31 March 2026. The findings stem from websites and applications deemed potentially harmful to the public.

“Satgas PASTI continues to strengthen efforts to eradicate illegal financial activities and address financial transaction fraud as part of consumer and public protection measures,” stated in a press release, cited on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.

The proliferation of illegal loan offers not only poses financial loss risks but also opens opportunities for personal data misuse and unsettling debt collection practices. Consequently, authorities are tightening oversight and enforcement against illegal digital activities.

In its report, Satgas PASTI revealed several commonly reported fraud tactics over recent months. One involves advertising services with deposit systems offering returns from simple activities such as leaving reviews, watching ads, or clicking links.

Perpetrators typically ask victims to deposit funds with promises of high returns in a short time. Additionally, there are impersonation tactics where fraudsters mimic the identity of legitimate financial service companies to convince potential victims.

“Duplication or imitation of licensed investment offerings (impersonation). Perpetrators copy the name, logo, or identity of licensed financial service providers to reassure the public, despite the offers not being made by the licensed parties,” they explained.

The task force also noted a surge in business funding offers with guaranteed returns without clear business explanations. Meanwhile, money game schemes and illegal cryptocurrency trading continue to be found across digital channels.