<![CDATA[The rapid growth of technology has significantly transformed the financial sector, particularly through financial technology (fintech) services. One of the most popular types of fintech in Indonesia is online lending. Online loans were created to provide the public with faster and easier access to financing. However, this advancement has also created new problems, namely the increasing prevalence of illegal online lending practices operating without permits from the Financial Services Authority (OJK).Illegal online loans not only cause financial losses to the public but also trigger legal, s’cial, and psychological problems due to exorbitant interest rates, threats, intimidation, and misuse of personal data. This situation indicates that technological progress has not been fully matched by adequate legal awareness and digital literacy among the community.This community service activity was carried out by lecturers and students of STIH IBLAM at Andhika General Hospital, Jagakarsa, South Jakarta. The program primarily targeted hospital employees, a group vulnerable to financial pressure and offers of instant digital-based financing. The methods applied included legal counseling, interactive presentations, case studies, and open discussions on illegal online lending practices in Indonesia.The materials presented covered the differences between legal and illegal loans, the legal basis for consumer protection, the economic and psychological impacts of illegal loans, and procedures for reporting to the relevant authorities.The results of this activity showed an increase in participants’ understanding of the risks of using illegal online loans, as well as greater legal awareness regarding the importance of personal data protection and caution in using digital financial services. Participants also began to recognize the importance of verifying the legality of lending services before making transactions and understanding the legal steps to take if they be”ome victims of illegal online lending practices.This activity proves that community-based legal counseling plays a vital role in shaping a more critical, legally aware society that is capable of protecting itself from illegal digital financial practices]]>
