Antara, Jakarta – Indonesia is mulling a "one person, one account" policy for social media use, a proposal currently under review by the Communication and Digital Ministry, in an effort to crack down on fraud and the spread of misinformation online.
House of Representatives Commission I Deputy Chair Sukamta said on Wednesday that reducing digital anonymity was crucial to ensure users' identities are clear and traceable. He argued that requiring each account to be linked to a verified phone number could help prevent misuse of anonymous profiles for unlawful activities.
"The principle is to reduce anonymity in the digital world so that names and identities are clearly visible on social media and other platforms," Sukamta said in Jakarta. "This is important to ensure no one can misuse anonymity to break the law or harm others."
The proposed study also includes rules that would cap the number of phone numbers a person can use to create accounts. While Sukamta described the "one person, one account" idea as an effective way to limit harmful anonymity, he stressed that broader discussions are needed before any policy is finalized.
"The key is ensuring people are required to use their real identities. Whether that's done through one person, one account, or other mechanisms, the goal is the same," he said.
Still, Sukamta said online problems go beyond multiple accounts or anonymous use. He called for stronger law enforcement and improved digital literacy to help the public verify information and resist false news.
He also acknowledged that such a system must account for Indonesia's diverse conditions on the ground. "This policy could work, especially since modern mobile phones already allow for advanced verification," he said, referring to earlier government proposals requiring factual ID checks for account registration.
Sukamta urged the government to provide comprehensive and inclusive solutions to ensure that Indonesia's digital space becomes not only anonymous-free but also safe from fear, manipulation, and discriminatory practices.
Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/tech/indonesia-weighs-one-person-one-social-media-account-polic