The development of digital technology has brought significant changes in the economic world, requiring students to have an adequate level of digital economy literacy to face the challenges of the digitalization era. However, there is still a gap in students' understanding of the digital economy, especially in the aspects of digital investment, cybersecurity, and financial risk management. This research aims to (1) measure the level of digital economic literacy of students, (2) identify inhibiting factors that affect their understanding, and (3) develop educational strategies that can effectively increase digital economy literacy. This study uses a qualitative approach with survey methods and in-depth interviews of Prasetiya Mandiri Polytechnic students from the D4 Department of International Business Administration and D3 Travel Business, which were selected through purposive sampling techniques. The research instruments are in the form of questionnaires to measure the level of digital economy literacy and in-depth interviews to explore inhibiting factors and effective learning strategies. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics to understand student understanding patterns and thematic analysis to identify challenges and strategies that could be applied. The results show that the majority of students are familiar with digital transactions and fintech, but still have a limited understanding of digital investments, data security, and financial risks in the digital world. The main inhibiting factors include a lack of formal education in the university curriculum, limited access to credible information, and low awareness of digital risks. To improve digital economy literacy, this study recommends technology-based education strategies and experiential learning, including the integration of the digital economy in the cross-department curriculum, fintech simulation-based training, and collaboration with the digital finance industry to provide hands-on experience to students. This research contributes to the development of a more applicable and technology-based digital economy education model. The implications of this study affirm the importance of curriculum reform and interactive learning approaches in increasing students' readiness to face the challenges of the digital economy in the future.