Legal Literacy- This article discusses the complexities of online gambling addiction issues in Indonesia and the discourse on providing social assistance to the victims. Although there are arguments in favor because it is considered a moral responsibility of the government, concerns also arise regarding the potential misuse of this assistance which could worsen addiction. In addition, the phenomenon of online gambling in Indonesia, which is growing rapidly, also highlights the expansion of internet access and anonymity that facilitates this activity, posing new challenges in law enforcement and social protection. This discussion underscores the need for solutions that combine legal, rehabilitation, and strict social assistance approaches to address this problem effectively.

Introduction

The polemic regarding the provision of social assistance to online gambling victims has become a hot topic among the public lately. This idea emerged as an effort to help those who are caught in the trap of online gambling addiction, which often ends in financial and social problems. However, like two sides of a coin, this discourse has also sparked fierce pros and cons in various circles. Not a few people think that online gambling is a complex bad habit of society, where victims are often trapped in a vicious cycle of addiction that is difficult to break free from.

Some people believe that the government has a moral obligation to protect its citizens from the bad effects of online gambling which is increasingly widespread. By providing assistance, the government not only helps the victims financially, but also shows its commitment to combating the social problem. They believe that social assistance can be a safety net for victims, helping them recover from financial difficulties and restore their lives back on track.

On the other hand, many people also express concerns about the potential provision of social assistance. They argue that online gambling is an illegal act that should not be tolerated by the government. By providing assistance, there are concerns that the government seems to justify or even support the activity, which is certainly contrary to ongoing law enforcement efforts. They argue that giving funds to online gambling victims can actually reinforce their addiction and encourage irresponsible behavior. In addition, the provision of this social assistance also absorbs funding sources that can drain the state budget.

Furthermore, some parties assume that providing social assistance to online gambling victims can create a dangerous situation, where people may demand similar assistance for victims of other illegal activities, such as drugs or theft. This could open the door to endless demands and ultimately burden the country's social welfare system. However, there are also parties who are trying to find a middle ground. They propose that social assistance be provided with strict requirements, such as proving addiction and commitment to undergoing therapy or rehabilitation. Thus, assistance is not only financial, but also encourages sustainable recovery efforts. In addition, there is a proposal to allocate some of the social assistance funds for prevention and education programs regarding the dangers of online gambling. By raising public awareness, it is hoped that it can reduce the number of new victims and create a healthier and safer environment for future generations.