Cyberattacks in Indonesia Increased Throughout 2021: Who Were the Victims?

Digital attacks in Indonesia increased significantly throughout 2021, according to data from the Southeast Asia Freedom of Expression Network (SAFEnet). At least 193 incidents of digital attacks were recorded last year, with WhatsApp and Instagram being the most targeted platforms.

The number of digital attacks rose by 38% compared to the previous year. In 2020, 147 cases of digital attacks were recorded.

In terms of victims, cyberattacks affected activists in 50 incidents, ordinary citizens in 34 incidents, and students in 27 incidents. Journalists and media outlets were targeted in 25 incidents.

According to Adi Marsela, Coordinator of Cekfakta.com, in a webinar held by the Indonesian Anti-Hoax Society (Mafindo) on Monday, March 28, 2022, fact-checkers conducted by journalists have a high vulnerability to digital attacks.

However, digital attacks do not only threaten fact-checkers or journalists but all citizens. This is because there are legal provisions that allow individuals to report others for social media activity related to freedom of expression.

"Although freedom of expression is legally our right as citizens, as long as there are regulations in the Criminal Code, such as defamation, and also regulations in the ITE Law, I think it remains a threat to all of us in Indonesia," Adi added.

Hacking was the most prevalent method of digital attack, with 136 incidents. This was followed by doxing with 24 incidents, data breaches and other forms of attacks with 14 incidents each, impersonation with 9 incidents, and phishing with 6 incidents.

(Also Read: Cybersecurity Investment in the US Increased Fourfold in 2021)