inp.polri.go.id - Medan. The Indonesian National Police (INP) Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo urged new students at the Muhammadiyah University of North Sumatra (UMSU) to master digital technology wisely and productively to avoid becoming victims or participants in various cybercrimes.
The Chief of Police delivered this message during a Public Lecture during the Introduction to Campus Life for New Students (PKKMB) at UMSU's Main Campus in Medan, North Sumatra, on Monday (9/28/2026).
He emphasized that advances in technology and artificial intelligence (AI) have opened up significant opportunities for the younger generation to learn, innovate, and create. However, these developments are also accompanied by various threats, ranging from online fraud, data theft, phishing, online gambling, hoaxes, disinformation, deepfakes, and AI-based crimes.
"Build your character and integrity, master technology wisely and productively, be courageous in creating, and take on roles in society," said Sigit.
According to General Sigit, the high use of the internet and social media in Indonesia must be balanced with strong digital literacy skills. This is because the digital space is one of the primary channels for people to receive information.
Data from the 2026 Digital News Report noted that 64 percent of respondents in Indonesia obtain news through social media. Meanwhile, 48 percent of respondents use social media and video networks as their primary source of information.
This situation requires the public, especially the younger generation, to be more critical in filtering all information. The INP Chief reminded students not to easily believe, spread, or follow narratives that have uncertain veracity.
Sigit also highlighted the phenomenon of the bandwagon effect, namely the tendency for individuals to follow the views or actions of others. In the digital space, this phenomenon can accelerate the spread of hoaxes, build public sentiment, and even encourage collective action that has the potential to disrupt public order and security.
Furthermore, digital crime continues to thrive by exploiting public needs. Drug trafficking, fraud disguised as overseas job vacancies, human trafficking, and the spread of extremist ideologies also use the digital space as a means.
Therefore, the INP Chief encourages UMSU students to become responsible users of technology. Students must be able to utilize digital developments to improve their competencies, broaden their horizons, develop their creativity, and make positive contributions to society.
He hopes that UMSU's new students will become a generation with strong character, skilled in utilizing technology, and capable of maintaining unity and security on campus and in the community.
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