In a proactive move against illicit financial operations, the Financial Services Authority (OJK) of Indonesia, in collaboration with 16 ministries/agencies, has initiated a Task Force to Combat Illegal Financial Activities (Satgas PASTI). This task force has recently taken decisive action to dismantle fraudulent schemes disguised as part-time job offers and robot trading platforms.
Hudiyanto, the Secretariat of the Task Force, disclosed that Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH) Indonesia and Smart Wallet were identified as the perpetrators of illegal financial activities. BBH Indonesia, falsely claiming affiliation with the renowned UK-based advertising agency BBH, operated a deceptive scheme offering part-time employment through a downloadable application.
The modus operandi of BBH Indonesia included false promises of daily earnings, mandatory member deposits, and the implementation of a referral system with tiered bonuses. Additionally, the involvement of foreign nationals in meetings aimed to persuade members further highlighted the deceptive nature of the operation.
Upon thorough investigation and coordination with relevant authorities, Satgas PASTI concluded that BBH Indonesia's activities constituted fraud and were conducted without proper authorization from the Ministry of Investment/BKPM.
In response, Satgas PASTI has implemented several measures, including blocking access to BBH Indonesia's platforms, freezing associated bank accounts, and liaising with law enforcement agencies to take further legal action.
Furthermore, the task force urges the public to exercise caution regarding part-time job offers, which have become increasingly exploited by fraudulent entities. To date, Satgas PASTI has identified at least 12 entities employing similar deceptive tactics involving deposit systems.
In parallel, action has been taken against Smart Wallet by the Commodity Futures Trading Regulatory Agency (Bappebti) and the Directorate General of Domestic Trade of the Ministry of Trade. Smart Wallet was found to operate without the necessary permits, engaging in fund-raising activities through multi-level marketing strategies.
Similar to the actions against BBH Indonesia, Satgas PASTI has collaborated with relevant authorities to block access to Smart Wallet's platforms and freeze associated bank accounts.
In light of these developments, Satgas PASTI emphasizes the importance of public vigilance and encourages individuals to be cautious when presented with lucrative financial opportunities from unverified sources. This concerted effort aims to safeguard citizens from falling victim to fraudulent schemes and uphold the integrity of Indonesia's financial landscape.