Technological consumer
As social beings, humans naturally cannot live alone. Interdependence is an inevitability that gives rise to various forms of interaction and relationships within society. These relationships are interwoven across every aspect of life, from the most intimate family circle to the complex structures of global society, based on the need to survive, thrive, and achieve shared goals. Of these many relationships, one of the most fundamental and a pillar of economic civilization is the relationship between producer and consumer.
In this regard, we must understand the duties and obligations that must be considered to avoid harm to ourselves. This raises the question: A wise consumer does not view producers as inferior. We cannot give in to producers by taking their goods as is and then remaining silent when they abuse our rights. Consumers are responsible. Producers deliver the goods or services ordered by consumers, and consumers place orders. Customers’ rights to comfort, security, and safety, as well as the right to compensation and knowledge of the status of goods, cannot be violated by manufacturers during the production process.
Many people lack adequate digital and financial literacy, making them vulnerable to fraud. Online fraud cases rank second in Indonesia, as reported by the National Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim Polri). According to data from the Indonesian National Police (Polri), approximately 7,047 internet fraud incidents were recorded between 2016 and September 2020. Each year, there are approximately 1,409 online fraud incidents. Furthermore, 67% of people in APAC experienced various online frauds in the previous 12 months, with the most common types being e-commerce retail fraud (21%), social media fraud (18%), and investment fraud (15%). Other data also indicate that online investment fraud (9%), social media fraud (16%), and e-commerce purchases (19%) are the three most common types of online fraud in Indonesia. Given that nearly half of respondents said they shop at least once a month, it is crucial for consumers to exercise caution when making online purchases.
Amidst the rapid flow of information in today’s digital age, being a smart consumer is crucial. We need the skills to select and filter information to avoid being misled by fake news or being misled. One crucial aspect of being a smart consumer is checking the credibility and bias of information sources. A smart consumer in the digital age can be defined as an individual who acts not merely as a passive buyer but as an active participant with holistic competencies in navigating the digital economy ecosystem.
This intelligence is manifested through a proactive attitude in critically seeking, filtering, and validating information before making a transaction. A smart consumer is not easily tempted by promotions or advertisements, but rather takes the time to conduct independent research, such as comparing prices, examining detailed product specifications, and reading reviews from other users to form objective decisions. Another crucial aspect is a high level of vigilance regarding digital security; this includes the ability to protect personal data, recognize the signs of online fraud, such as offers that seem too good to be true, and verify the credibility of sellers and e-commerce platforms before making transactions. Smart consumers also prioritize the use of secure payment methods and understand their rights and obligations, so they know what steps to take if problems arise. Ultimately, being a smart consumer isn’t about refraining from shopping, but rather about empowering yourself with knowledge and caution to maximize the convenience of digital technology while minimizing any risks.
Becoming a smart consumer in the digital age is an ongoing process. It requires conscious effort from all of us. Here are some steps we can take to improve our digital literacy. First, verify the source. Before sharing or acting on any information, it’s important to verify the source. Look for trusted sources with a good reputation for accuracy and objectivity. Second, check for bias.
Every media source has its own biases. Try to identify any potential biases and consider how they might influence the information presented. Third, seek a balanced perspective. Don’t rely solely on one source. Seek information from multiple perspectives to gain a more comprehensive view. Fourth, think critically. Don’t blindly accept any information you encounter. Think critically about what you read or hear. Ask questions, seek supporting evidence, and evaluate the logic of arguments. Fifth, limit screen time. Spending too much time online can overload us with information. Limit your screen time and spend it doing other healthy activities. The government, through the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, is committed to continuously eradicating the increasingly rampant and sophisticated digital financial crimes, ranging from illegal online loans to online fraud that harms the public.
Based on the analysis presented, it can be concluded that the key to addressing the rise in digital financial fraud is increasing consumer literacy and awareness. Rapid technological advances have not been matched by increased public vigilance, creating security gaps that fraudsters exploit. Neglecting personal data security, being easily tempted by the lure of prizes, and a lack of information verification are the main entry points for cybercrime. Therefore, being a smart, critical, and vigilant consumer is no longer an option but an absolute necessity for surviving in the challenging digital ecosystem.
By: Zwetaraya Aisyah Sertivani
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