Misinformation Impersonating Bank Indonesia Causes Public Confusion

Misinformation targeting Bank Indonesia (BI) is circulating through social media and messaging applications, causing confusion among the public. These hoaxes spread false information about currency issued by BI and individuals associated with the institution. According to Liputan6.com's fact-checking, the main hoaxes identified include: 1. New Currency Hoax: A claim that a new Rp 5 million banknote featuring the portrait of the first Indonesian President, Soekarno, will be issued around June 2026. This is clearly false and aims to manipulate public sentiment regarding purchasing power. 2. Currency Denomination Change Hoax: Information circulating since around November 2025 suggests BI is issuing new currency with three zeros removed. Accompanying videos show images of buildings with denominations like "1 Rupiah," "2 Rupiah," and "5 Rupiah," but this is also incorrect. Indonesia's currency unit has been the Rupiah for many years, and any significant changes would involve extensive public announcements. 3. Legal Action Against Official Hoax: Since around January 2025, screenshots of an article claiming that the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, is being sued by BI have been spreading. The article headline reads, "Bahlil Lahadalia's Career in Danger! Bank Indonesia Sues Bahlil Lahadalia," accompanied by inflammatory commentary. There is no confirmed involvement of BI in such a lawsuit. These hoaxes exploit low financial literacy among the public and a tendency to not verify information sources. BI strongly urges the public to verify information through official announcements and reliable sources. Liputan6.com's fact-checking division, established in 2018 and a member of the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN), strives to improve media literacy among the public.