PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - Amidst the rise of online loan services, many people have suddenly received calls or debt collection messages because their number was listed as an emergency contact by someone else.

This situation raises the question of whether the person listed only as an emergency contact is also responsible for paying the debt.

The answer is no. Someone who is simply listed as an emergency contact does not automatically become responsible for the borrower's debt.

In civil law, the obligation to fulfill a debt agreement rests with the party making the agreement. Provisions regarding agreements are regulated, among other things, in Articles 1313 and 1318 of the Civil Code.

If a person never makes or agrees to a loan agreement, he or she essentially has no obligation to repay the debt.

What about the Numbers Listed as Emergency Contacts?

Using a telephone number as an emergency contact also relates to personal data protection. According to Law Number 27 of 2022 concerning Personal Data Protection, the processing of personal data must be based on a legitimate basis in accordance with statutory provisions.

This means that if a person's telephone number is listed as an emergency contact without their knowledge or consent, the data owner can submit an objection and request that the data no longer be used in accordance with the applicable mechanisms.

Online loan providers also have an obligation to ensure consumer protection. Collection should not be conducted in a manner that intimidates or harasses non-borrowers.

What to do?

If you receive an online loan bill even though you are not the borrower, there are several steps you can take.

State that you are not a borrower and do not have any contractual relationship with the lender.

Save evidence in the form of screenshots, message recordings, or call history if billing continues.

If the billing continues and is disruptive, report it to the Financial Services Authority (OJK) or related authorities through the available complaint channels.

So, being an emergency contact doesn't mean being a debt guarantor. We shouldn't let other people's debts cause us trouble.

Know your rights and obligations so you are not easily intimidated when facing legal problems.

(Rep pun/bhf)