Public Awareness of Illegal Fintech Lending Activities

Jakarta, 25 November 2024 – PT CRIF Lembaga Informasi Keuangan (CLIK) recently reported the misuse of its company address and the name of Indonesia Financial Services Authority’s (OJK) financial information system known as SLIK by unauthorized parties associated with illegal fintech lending on social media. The misuse was discovered when a victim of the illegal lending scheme visited CLIK’s office to inquire about the status of their loan disbursement.

After an investigation, CLIK discovered an account under the name “slik.com.id” that was not registered within the OJK system and is being promoted through Instagram. The “slik.com.id” entity was found to have violated regulations by using CLIK’s address and SLIK’s name as its own. “We deeply sympathize with the victims of this illegal fintech entity. Such actions are entirely unacceptable and could lead to more victims in the future. Moreover, the entity’s social media account remains active to this day,” stated President Director CLIK Leonardo Lapalorcia.

CLIK has reported the fraudulent entity to the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Asosiasi Fintech Pendanaan Bersama Indonesia (AFPI) for further action. The report also included a link to the relevant account and channel. “We urge the public to remain vigilant against various advertisements and offers claiming to represent fintech lending companies, especially those promising instant funds after sending a certain amount of money. Do not trust screenshots or similar proof from others claiming that funds have been transferred. No legitimate fintech lending company promotes its services in such a manner,” emphasized Leonardo.

Leonardo urges industry players to remain vigilant and routinely check data or general information that irresponsible parties could misuse. “If any data misuse is discovered, we encourage you to report it to OJK and AFPI. This is crucial to prevent more victims or greater losses in the future,” he stated.

AFPI Chairman Entjik S. Djafar stated, “It is crucial for the entire fintech ecosystem to unite against illegal online lending practices. CLIK’s appeal aligns with AFPI’s commitment to protecting consumers and upholding the integrity of the fintech lending industry.”

The presence of illegal fintech company accounts poses a serious risk of data misuse, potentially harming the credibility of the entire fintech-based funding industry. “Toward the end of the year, fraudulent activities by irresponsible parties typically increase. Therefore, we urge the public not to be easily enticed by offers of instant funds with suspicious requirements. Always verify whether the company has an official website, a customer service phone number, and active social media accounts as an initial screening step,” concluded Leonardo.