Don't Be A Victim! Check Out Five Mandatory Online Fraud Modes

Scam illustration (photo: Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Digital transactions have become a part of daily life. But please note that behind the convenience, the threat of online fraud is also increasingly rampant.

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) notes that every day there are around 700-800 cases of online fraud in Indonesia, with the Indonesia Anti-Scam Center (IASC) estimating total losses due to online fraud in the country reaching around IDR 4.6 trillion from November 2024 to August 2025.

Based on data from the DANA digital wallet, the following are the five most common cybercrime modes found in West Java and Banten, as well as steps to anticipate it:

Takeover of account

This mode occurs when the perpetrator manages to control the victim's digital account, from social media to digital wallets, which are usually done via phishing, malware, or data leakage. Victims can experience financial losses or identity abuse.

So, it's important to always be careful about clicking links, checking the authenticity of the site, using different passwords on each account, and activating layered security.

Counterfeit transactions

The fraudulent transaction mode occurs when the perpetrator sends evidence of fake transfers or receipts to urge payment. Prevent this by ensuring payment through official channels, checking the seller's reputation through previous buyer reviews, and verifying contact information.

Avoid rushing to send goods or make payments before receiving confirmation; Beware of suspicious transfer or receipt evidence, and if in doubt, consult directly with related parties or experts to ensure transaction security.

Gift scam

Fraudsters often send links or fake messages on behalf of the official party, then ask for money transfers to 'administrative costs' or 'gift tax'. Immediately report suspicious messages to the official channel, so that related parties can follow up, while limiting the space for fraudsters to move.

Instant service

Offers such as online work with large salaries, instant loans, to refill services that look practical, are often used by fraudsters to serve fake or illegal services. Even though it looks professional, the victim can lose money or personal data.

Avoid this trap by checking the legality and reputation of service providers, make sure to use official and legitimate platforms or partners for each service, and not share personal data, such as ID cards, selfies, or account numbers, which are prone to misuse.

Fake customer service agents

Fraudsters who pretend to be customer service agents usually fake cases, making you feel the need to respond immediately and even feel helped. This is where they take advantage of the moment to reduce the victim's vigilance.

To avoid this trap, always make sure you only interact through the company's official channel. Never share PIN, OTP, or personal data, even if requested urgently. If in doubt, immediately turn off the phone or stop the chat, and call the official contacts listed on the company's application or website.