Indonesia blocks 132 illegal gambling sites, $15M frozen

Cybercrime police lead the operation

Police in Jakarta confirmed the crackdown during a briefing this month. The operation focused on online casinos serving users in Indonesia. The Cybercrime Directorate, called Dittipidsiber, handled the case. This police team investigates online fraud, hacking, and illegal gambling.

During the operation, police closed 132 gambling websites and froze 255,75 billion rupiah — about $15,2 million. Financial reports helped guide the investigation. Analysts had noticed unusual transfers linked to gambling. Investigators then followed the money through banks and other channels. Small clues revealed a larger network behind the illegal casinos.

Monitoring system tracks suspicious payments

Indonesia’s financial agency helped the investigation. The agency tracks unusual transactions in banks. Automated tools flagged transfers linked to gambling. Banks work with the system to detect suspicious activity. Investigators then check the accounts and payment history.

Authorities say the system helped find hidden money routes — often used by illegal casinos. Some experts warn automated tools can freeze unrelated accounts. Still, officials see it as a useful tool in big investigations. Brigadier-General Himawan Bayu Aji explained the strategy. Payment channels support illegal casinos — blocking them weakens the networks.

Thousands of accounts linked to gambling

Investigators found a large web of financial activity. Police linked 5,961 bank accounts to the suspected network.

Many accounts processed deposits or withdrawals for illegal casinos. Authorities froze hundreds of accounts. Some funds could go to the state treasury. More accounts are still under review. Key figures include:

• 5,961 bank accounts linked to the network

• 359 accounts with frozen funds

• 142,01 billion rupiah ($8,4 million) that may be seized

• 40 more accounts under review

Wider effort to reduce online gambling

The crackdown led to 11 criminal investigations. Officials say more cases could appear as checks continue.Indonesia is also tightening online rules. Officials plan limits on social media for children under 16.

They hope the rules reduce exposure to illegal gambling and online risks. Officials also warn about fraud, cyberbullying, and digital addiction. Illegal casinos rely on payment systems — and authorities are hitting them directly. Cut the money routes, investigators say, and the networks may collapse.