QRIS Grows Rapidly in 2025: How to Spot Fake QR Codes and Avoid Scams

Indonesia’s digital economy is rapidly evolving and gaining global recognition. Among the key innovations shaping this transformation is QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard)—a QR-based payment system that’s changing the way people pay, from bustling cities to rural towns.

Beyond its convenience, QRIS has delivered impressive performance. According to Bank Indonesia (BI), QRIS transaction volumes soared by 148.5% year-on-year in Q2 2025. The total transaction value reached IDR 6.1 billion, just below the annual target of IDR 6.5 billion. Meanwhile, active users continue to grow, now nearing 57 million, just shy of the 58 million target.

Expanding Across Borders: QRIS Soon in Japan and China

QRIS’s growth story doesn’t stop at Indonesia’s borders. Bank Indonesia is pushing its reach to the global stage with cross-border payment features, enabling Indonesian users and international visitors to make seamless transactions by scanning a QR code.

Starting August 17, 2025, QRIS will roll out in Japan and China, following its success in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. In its initial phase, according to Bank Indonesia, the service will work under the Indonesia outbound scheme, meaning Indonesian travelers in Japan can pay at local merchants simply by scanning their QR codes. Integration with China will begin with a sandbox testing phase on the same date, coinciding with Indonesia’s Independence Day.

Imagine traveling without worrying about cash exchanges—just open your Indonesian payment app, scan, and you’re done in seconds. That’s the convenience QRIS is bringing to life.

How to Use QRIS Cross-Border in Countries Like Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore:

• Open your trusted Indonesian payment app.
• Select the QRIS option and scan the merchant’s QR code.
• Enter the amount in the local currency.
• Confirm the merchant details and payment amount.
• Enter your PIN to finalize the payment.
• Receive a notification confirming the transaction.

Beware of QRIS Scams: Recognize and Prevent Fake QR Codes

As QRIS adoption rises, so does the risk of scams. One growing scheme involves fake QR codes placed in public spaces or merchant locations.

These fraudulent codes often look authentic—replicating merchant names, product descriptions, and payment amounts—making it hard for users to detect anything wrong. Unfortunately, victims often realize they’ve been scammed only after their accounts have been drained.

Security Starts with Everyone: Users and Merchants

Keeping QRIS secure requires joint responsibility. Merchants should take proactive steps, such as:

• Securing QRIS codes (both printed and EDC-based) to prevent tampering.
• Verifying all transactions, ensuring notifications are received before delivering goods or services.
• Avoiding unattended QR displays, especially in public areas or during off-hours.

Smart Tips for Safe QRIS Payments

To stay safe while enjoying the convenience of QRIS, users should follow these best practices:

• Double-check merchant names and amounts before entering your PIN.
• Look for tampered or suspicious QR codes, especially those that appear newly pasted.
• Use only official payment apps from providers licensed by OJK and BI.
• Keep sensitive details private—never share PINs, OTPs, or login details.
• Enable payment notifications to monitor every transaction instantly.
• Report suspicious activity to your payment provider or relevant authorities.

QRIS is helping Indonesia take a big step toward a future of digital payments that are inclusive, efficient, and secure. But that future depends on everyone—users, merchants, and payment providers—staying vigilant. With shared awareness and collective action, we can ensure QRIS remains a trusted, secure, and future-ready payment solution for all.