Is Recording Phone Calls Legal in Indonesia After the 2026 Regulatory Updates?

Yes, recording phone calls is legal in Indonesia under strict conditions. The Electronic Information and Transactions Law (UU ITE) permits recordings if at least one party consents, aligning with common-law jurisdictions. However, unauthorized interception or disclosure violates privacy rights under the 2026 Personal Data Protection Law (PDP Law), risking fines up to IDR 6 billion or imprisonment. Businesses must ensure compliance with OJK and Kominfo guidelines to avoid sanctions.


Key Regulations for Recording Phone Calls in Indonesia

  • Consent Requirement: Under UU ITE (2008, amended 2026), recordings are lawful only if one party to the call consents. Explicit notice to all parties is recommended to mitigate disputes.
  • Privacy Violations: The PDP Law (2026) prohibits unauthorized interception or sharing of recorded calls, classifying such acts as criminal offenses under Article 66 with penalties including imprisonment.
  • Sector-Specific Rules: Financial institutions must adhere to OJK Circular No. 18/POJK.03/2016, requiring documented consent for call recordings in customer service interactions.

Practical Compliance Notes:

  • Businesses should implement internal policies for call recording, including opt-in disclosures and secure storage under Kominfo’s 2024 Technical Standards for Data Protection.
  • Individuals recording personal calls for evidence must ensure the recording does not infringe third-party rights, as courts may exclude illegally obtained evidence under HIR (Indonesian Civil Procedure Code).