BPH Migas to Update QR Code System for Subsidised Fuel Purchases

The Downstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Agency (BPH Migas) is preparing to update the Quick Response (QR) code system for the purchase of subsidised fuel by agencies and private companies. This initiative follows the discovery of fuel smuggling and misuse involving barcode-based fraud.

“The QR Code is currently static; we will soon make it dynamic. With a dynamic system, there will no longer be potential for forgery or duplication developed by certain individuals using Artificial Intelligence (AI),” stated the Head of BPH Migas, Wahyudi Anas, at the Makassar Container Terminal, South Sulawesi, on Tuesday.

According to Anas, advancements in AI technology currently allow for the imitation of vehicle details simply by taking a photograph, enabling the creation of specific number plates and forged vehicle registration certificates (STNK) that appear authentic when registered via the MyPertamina application.

“There will be PINs and various other security measures to ensure the system cannot be abused,” he added, responding to the rising misuse of QR codes for subsidised fuel at petrol stations (SPBU).

He noted that during a recent investigation by the Makassar Naval Regional Command (Kodaeral) VI, fuel tank trucks were found bearing Pertamina labels, which were allegedly removed during subsequent inspections to deceive officials. Anas emphasised that the seized trucks appeared physically suspicious, noting that legitimate Pertamina transporters are clearly registered under specific company names. While legitimate barcodes scan to reveal a company’s initials, the fraudulent codes used in these cases do not.

Furthermore, BPH Migas confirmed that all official partners possess official delivery notes from Pertamina. These delivery notes track the origin, destination, and specific petrol stations involved, allowing for full traceability of fuel distribution.