Indonesia tightens rules for crypto influencers: now a certificate of competence is mandatory

Indonesia's financial regulator is introducing strict requirements for crypto influencers. From now on, anyone who publicly recommends cryptocurrencies or other digital financial assets must obtain an official certificate of competence. This is a landmark step aimed at protecting retail investors from unverified and potentially dangerous advice.
The new rule significantly changes the marketing landscape in Indonesia's crypto industry. Influencers can no longer simply share their opinions or personal experiences without the appropriate qualifications. Certification involves confirming knowledge of blockchain, volatility risks, trading mechanisms, and legal aspects of digital assets.
Restrictions on Advertised Assets
In addition to mandatory certification, the regulator has established clear boundaries for the content of advertising campaigns. Influencers are allowed to promote only those crypto assets that have been listed on authorized and licensed exchanges in Indonesia. Any recommendations for tokens that do not meet this criterion will be considered a violation.
Furthermore, all advertising and marketing campaigns must be conducted exclusively through the official channels of licensed financial companies. This means that independent social media posts without approval from a licensed partner are now illegal.
Expert Opinion
This move is a logical continuation of the global trend toward regulating crypto advertising. Indonesia, as one of the largest markets in Southeast Asia, demonstrates that investor protection is becoming a priority, even at the expense of free information dissemination. In my view, influencer certification is an effective filter that will weed out amateurs and fraudsters, but it may simultaneously slow down the adoption of new projects. The market will need time to adapt to these rules, but in the long term, this will strengthen trust in the crypto industry in the country.