Warning! DGT Alerts Taxpayers to Tax Penalty Reduction Scams

JAKARTA, DDTCNews - The Directorate General of Taxes (DGT) has reminded taxpayers to be vigilant against fraud schemes operating under the guise of programmes offering reduction or nullification of tax administrative penalties of up to 100%.

The DGT explained that fraudsters may exploit the administrative penalty reduction programme to deceive taxpayers via WhatsApp messages. Taxpayers are advised to exercise caution when receiving messages about penalty reduction programmes, particularly if accompanied by an Android package kit (APK)-format application file.

"Please note that the DGT never sends APK-format application files via WhatsApp, nor does it request tax payment transfers to personal bank accounts," read a post by the DGT on social media, Thursday (22/10/2026).

The tax authority confirmed that programmes for the reduction or nullification of tax administrative penalties are indeed available. However, these facilities do not constitute a tax amnesty, as taxpayers remain required to settle the principal tax liability pursuant to the applicable provisions.

The DGT also reminded taxpayers to download official applications only via the App Store and Google Play Store. Taxpayers should refrain from installing applications from files or links sent via WhatsApp messages by parties claiming to represent the authority.

Applications for the reduction of administrative penalties may be submitted independently through the DGT's official channels, including coretax. Taxpayers do not need to use intermediaries who promise penalty nullification in exchange for payments to personal accounts.

Should taxpayers receive a suspicious message or require further information regarding such facilities, they may confirm with the nearest tax office (KPP) or contact Kring Pajak on telephone number 1500200.

"Please remain vigilant at all times and ensure that any information you receive originates from an official source," wrote the DGT.

For reference, the government provides the reduction or nullification of tax administrative penalties facility of up to 100% through MoF Reg. 71/2026 and the Director General of Taxes Decree No. KEP-239/PJ/2026.

The extent of the reduction or nullification of penalties varies according to the type of penalty and the timing of the fulfilment of tax obligations. Utilisation of these facilities must still satisfy the applicable requirements, including settlement of the principal tax liability pursuant to the provisions on each facility. See: DGT Nullifies Tax Administrative Penalties of up to 100% (dik)