OJK probes fraudulent debt resolution schemes in online lending

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is investigating entities offering debt resolution services for online loans (pinjol).

Dicky Kartikoyono, Chief Executive of the Financial Services Authority’s (OJK) Consumer Protection, Education, and Business Conduct Supervision, said the findings emerged from cyber patrols and information gathered by the Financial Illegal Activities Eradication Task Force (Satgas PASTI) in various regions.

Several entities are suspected of offering debt resolution services by charging fees from the public and falsely claiming to be registered with the OJK.

‘The information is currently under further investigation to determine the necessary follow-up actions,’ Dicky said in a written response received in Jakarta on Sunday.

He also urged the public to remain vigilant against parties offering loan settlement services, particularly those demanding upfront payments or misusing OJK’s branding without authorisation.

‘The public is advised to verify the legitimacy and accuracy of information via OJK’s official channels before conducting transactions or sharing personal data,’ Dicky added.

The OJK, through Satgas PASTI, previously shut down an entity with a similar modus operandi: PT Malahayati Nusantara Raya (Malahayati), which offered online loan consultation services, debt collection, and capital development and disbursement programs for the public.

In its publications, the company was found to have used the OJK logo and claimed to be licensed and registered with the regulator.

Following verification, it was confirmed that Malahayati lacked OJK or other relevant regulatory licences and was operating in violation of the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming’s permits.

Satgas PASTI blocked access to its social media and URLs. The cessation of operations and URL blocking remain in effect until the necessary permits are obtained.