TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The Financial Services Authority (OJK) said that women have more problems with financial technology (fintech) lenders who are not registered. The head of the OJK’s investment warning task force, Tongam L Tobing, said this was based on the number of reports written by more women than men.

He said three out of four cases of illegal fintech were reported by women. “There are more complaints from women who have been bullied and harassed, so we indicate that illegal moneylenders affect women more because of the many complaints,” he said in Jakarta, Monday, September 23. .

Based on the number of complaints, Tongam said, many problems arise because online loans come with high interest and administrative charges, coupled with the “tendency of borrowers not to read the terms and conditions of agreements.”

“It’s very dangerous for the community because first of all the interest is high, the fees are very high, the penalties are very high and they also do unethical collection when the borrower can’t pay – using terror, intimidation and harassment,” Tongam mentioned.

OJK called on the public not to access illegal online loans and avoid unregistered lenders.

“Borrow from legal lenders registered with the OJK, the list is available on the OJK website or you can call 157,” Tongam said.

He stressed that potential borrowers should understand the risks, responsibilities and interests when applying for a loan, so that they don’t regret it later.

He also urged the public to only use fintech lend services for productive purposes based on their needs and ability to repay debt.

“Don’t borrow new loans to cover old loans; dig a hole to cover another,” he said.

EKO WAHYUDI