Digital Wallets for Impactful Financial Inclusion: Innovative Strategies Based on Sharia Economics and Cybersecurity in Indonesia

The rapid advancement of digitalization has positioned digital wallets (e-wallets) as vital instruments in promoting financial inclusion in Indonesia. While offering convenience and efficiency, the adoption of digital wallets still faces significant challenges, particularly related to the digital literacy gap, cybersecurity threats such as phishing and OTP (One-Time Passcode) fraud, and the need to integrate Sharia economic principles in this Muslim-majority country. This article employs a qualitative approach through a literature study method to identify critical issues and formulate innovative, high-quality, engaging, and action-inspiring solutions in line with the theme Research to Impact The findings show that digitalization serves as a catalyst in expanding access to financial services; however, barriers related to literacy and cybersecurity may erode public trust. The urgency to integrate Sharia principles becomes essential to boost adoption among the Muslim population, while multi-stakeholder collaboration is crucial in building an inclusive financial ecosystem. Based on analytical findings, this article proposes five key strategies: (1) Building public trust through massive and continuous digital security education, including the identification of fraud modes and the importance of safeguarding personal data. (2) Innovating Sharia-responsive and inclusive financial services, such as developing transparent Sharia digital wallet features and partnerships with Sharia financial institutions. (3) Improving digital infrastructure and adaptive regulatory support from the government and regulators to reach remote areas and vulnerable segments. (4) Empowering MSMEs through comprehensive training on digital integration, QRIS utilization, and Sharia-based financing. (5) Establishing “Community-Based Digital Financial Inclusion Centers” at the local level as hubs for education, technical support, and partnership facilitation. The implementation of these strategies is expected to address challenges, increase public trust, expand access, and ensure a secure, Sharia-compliant, and sustainable digital financial inclusion in Indonesia, delivering real impact for economic development.