Indonesia’s National Police have issued a nationwide warning ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, cautioning that the tournament is likely to drive a significant increase in illegal online gambling activity. Authorities are preparing for what they describe as a demanding enforcement period, as the country anticipates heightened risks linked to digital betting and fraud.

Enforcement Pressure Builds Ahead of Tournament

The warning was delivered during a press conference in Jakarta, where officials highlighted the scale of expected activity during the tournament. Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, Head of the Public Information Bureau, stated that law enforcement agencies are already implementing preventive measures in advance of the event.

“We must anticipate the rise of football gambling,” Trunoyudo said, according to Asia Gaming Brief. “We cannot allow this momentum to be exploited for unlawful activities that could result in public loss.”

The 2026 tournament, scheduled to take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June to July, is expected to draw record global audiences. In Indonesia, the impact could be even more pronounced due to the country’s strong football following and the expanded format of the competition, which will feature 48 teams.

All forms of gambling remain illegal in Indonesia under the Penal Code, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. Authorities have maintained consistent enforcement in recent years, targeting online platforms that operate outside the legal framework.

The scale of enforcement efforts has increased steadily. Over the past eighteen months, authorities have blocked more than a million gambling-related websites and frozen thousands of financial accounts linked to betting activity. The Financial Services Authority confirmed that tens of thousands of accounts were restricted following detection of suspicious transactions.

Despite these measures, illegal gambling continues to operate through offshore platforms. These services often rely on virtual private networks, digital payment systems, and cryptocurrency channels to reach Indonesian users. Officials say major sporting events, particularly international football tournaments, have historically led to spikes in betting activity.

The upcoming World Cup adds an additional factor, as Indonesia has qualified for the tournament for the first time. Authorities expect that national interest could amplify engagement levels, increasing exposure to illegal betting promotions.

Crackdowns and Regional Trends

Recent enforcement actions indicate a growing focus on dismantling organized networks behind online gambling operations. In early May, Indonesian police arrested 321 foreign nationals in Jakarta in connection with an alleged online betting syndicate. Investigators said the group had been operating dozens of gambling websites targeting international users.

Authorities reported that many of those involved entered the country using short-term visas before engaging in illegal activities. Evidence collected during the operation included electronic devices, financial records, and multiple forms of currency. A significant number of detainees have been formally charged under gambling and money laundering laws.

Officials have also noted a broader regional pattern. According to law enforcement agencies, similar operations have been uncovered in cities such as Surabaya, Bali, and Batam. Investigators believe that some criminal groups have shifted their activities to Indonesia following increased crackdowns in other parts of Southeast Asia.

Public Awareness and Reporting Measures

Authorities are placing greater emphasis on public participation as part of their response strategy. Citizens are being encouraged to report suspected gambling activity and online scams through the national 110 hotline. In addition, a dedicated reporting channel has been established in cooperation with the state broadcaster TVRI.

TVRI, which will serve as the official broadcaster for the World Cup in Indonesia, plans to expand its coverage through 34 regional stations. Officials view the broadcaster’s reach as both an opportunity and a potential risk, given the likelihood that illegal operators may attempt to exploit viewing platforms to promote betting services.

Police have warned that gambling promotions may appear alongside pirated streams or through misleading websites. These channels are often used to redirect users to betting platforms or to facilitate fraudulent schemes linked to match viewing events.

Authorities have also cautioned against scams related to public viewing activities, including fraudulent ticket sales. During previous tournaments, similar schemes have targeted fans seeking access to viewing events.

The government is preparing to launch a nationwide campaign aimed at reducing illegal gambling and related online fraud. Officials have emphasized the importance of maintaining public order during the tournament, noting that excessive fan behavior can also contribute to security concerns.

Indonesia’s experience during the 2022 World Cup has shaped its current approach. Authorities reported a sharp increase in online gambling activity during that period, alongside a surge in digital content linked to betting platforms.

As preparations continue, enforcement agencies are focusing on monitoring digital channels, strengthening coordination between institutions, and expanding public awareness efforts. The scale of the 2026 World Cup, combined with its expected audience reach, is likely to test the effectiveness of these measures.

Officials have made it clear that the coming months will require sustained vigilance, as the intersection of global sporting interest and digital platforms creates conditions for increased illegal activity.