OJK Riau Islands Warns Public Against Illegal Investments and Online Loans Ahead of Eid

As Eid 2025 approaches, the Financial Services Authority (OJK) of Riau Islands has urged the public to be extra cautious of illegal investment and online loan (pinjol) offers that often emerge during the festive period.

"This blessed occasion is frequently exploited by irresponsible individuals to commit fraud using various schemes," said OJK Riau Islands Head Sinar Danandjaya in Batam, Sunday (March 23, 2025). He emphasized the importance of being vigilant when receiving investment or loan offers from unknown sources.

To prevent falling victim to fraud, OJK provided several preventive measures, including:

• Avoid clicking suspicious links from unknown sources.
• Be logical about investment or loan offers that promise unrealistic profits.
• Never share personal information with unfamiliar parties.
• Verify the legality of financial service providers by checking if they are registered with OJK.

For those who have already fallen victim to fraud, Sinar urged them to report the incident through OJK’s official channels. "We will block the scammer’s bank account," he assured.

The public can also verify financial institution legitimacy by contacting OJK at 157 or via WhatsApp at 081 157 157 157.

"Before borrowing, #CheckFirst your needs and ability to repay, and understand the terms and obligations," he added.

Task Force Warns of Rising Financial Scams Before Eid

Previously, the Task Force for the Eradication of Illegal Financial Activities (Satgas Pasti)—which includes OJK as one of its members—also warned the public to be more cautious of various financial fraud schemes that tend to surge before Ramadan and Eid 1446 H.

According to Hudiyanto, Secretary of Satgas Pasti, fraudsters often take advantage of the pre-Eid period to deceive people using multiple tactics.

Some common fraud schemes include:

•  Illegal online loans that promise quick approval to cover Eid expenses.
•  Fraudulent investments offering high returns in a short time.
•  Phishing attacks, where scammers trick victims into providing personal data through fake links.
•  Impersonation scams, where fraudsters pose as licensed financial institutions to deceive victims.
•  Fake part-time job offers designed to collect personal information.

OJK and Satgas Pasti continue to urge the public to be cautious when dealing with financial offers and to verify any information through official channels to avoid falling prey to scams.