Indonesia Sees Bump in Online Gambling as 2026 World Cup Kicks Off
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- The Indonesian Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) has detected a significant increase in online gambling transactions ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
- Digital payment systems like QRIS are being used for football betting, with transaction numbers exceeding those of common gambling sites.
- PPATK is collaborating with the police to combat the surge in online gambling during the tournament.
Indonesia is bracing for a surge in online gambling as the 2026 World Cup kicks off. The Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) has identified a wave of online gambling deposit transactions, noting that digital payment systems, including QRIS, are being exploited for football betting pools.
PPATK Head Ivan Yustiavandana stated that the volume of football betting transactions is surpassing those of typical online gambling sites. Gamblers are reportedly placing substantial bets on World Cup matches. The agency also found that operators are using nominee bank accounts, often acquired through buy-sell transactions, to obscure the flow of funds through QRIS.
Dormant accounts are no longer used.
To counter this trend, PPATK is working closely with the Indonesian National Police and regional forces. Analysis results are shared proactively and upon request. National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has reactivated the Anti-Football Mafia Task Force to curb illegal gambling activities during the global tournament. The World Cup began on June 12 and runs through July 20, 2026, featuring an expanded 48 teams.
To avoid the World Cup being exploited by certain groups to violate the law.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Tempo. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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