OVO blocks 7000 wallets in major Gambling Crackdown
OVO, one of Indonesia’s largest fintech platforms with more than 110 million users, disclosed that the accounts were blocked under the Joint Movement to Uncover Online Gambling, known locally as Gebuk Judol. The initiative is a coordinated public–private effort aimed at cutting off financial access to illegal gambling operators. According to the company, public participation played a crucial role, with 91 percent of reports verified and forwarded to authorities for further investigation. OVO stated that these measures have helped reduce gambling-related digital transactions by up to 97 percent.
The enforcement action aligns with the government’s broader strategy to disrupt online betting networks, which remain widespread despite Indonesia’s blanket prohibition on gambling. Data from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center shows that online gambling transactions dropped significantly in 2025, falling from Rp 359 trillion in 2024 to Rp 155 trillion in the first three quarters of the year. Regulators also continue targeting access points, with more than 2.4 million gambling websites and digital assets taken down since late 2024.
E-wallets and banking institutions have come under increased scrutiny as authorities strengthen monitoring frameworks. Other wallets, including DANA and GoPay, have reported reductions in gambling-related activity following the adoption of predictive analytics and AI-driven screening tools. Officials say these technologies are now essential for mapping illegal payment flows and identifying suspicious accounts.
OVO has also expanded its financial education initiatives to prevent misuse of digital services, while supporting wider social programmes linked to national development goals. As regulators, financial institutions and the public intensify their cooperation, Indonesia’s efforts signal a long-term commitment to dismantling illegal gambling networks through stronger oversight and technological intervention.
