Viral Allegations of Fake KTPs in Semarang Priced at Rp500,000, Disdukcapil Denies Employee Involvement

SEMARANG, KOMPAS.com - Allegations of fake identity cards (KTP) circulating in Semarang City, Central Java, have sparked widespread discussion on social media after reports surfaced about the production of these documents for around Rp500,000.

The information spread through an Instagram post by the account @dinaskegelapan_kotasemarang showing a screenshot of a WhatsApp conversation regarding suspected fake KTP-making practices.

In the conversation, names Alex and Rudi appear, allegedly involved in providing fake KTPs.

Rudi was mentioned as a purported official from the Population and Civil Registration Office (Disdukcapil), while Alex was described as an intermediary.

The post also mentioned a fee of about Rp500,000 payable through the intermediary to obtain the KTP.

Head of the Semarang City Disdukcapil, Yudi Hardianto Wibowo, denied that any employee named Alex or Rudi worked within the agency.

"I can confirm there is no one named Alex or Rudi at Disdukcapil. I assure you the KTPs issued by us are genuine and free of charge," Yudi said on Friday (18/9/2026).

"Why would anyone pay for a fake KTP? That means it's a member of the public with bad intentions, aiming to carry out acts that violate regulations," he added.

"I emphasize that our KTP issuance process is very strict," Yudi stressed.

Disdukcapil reveals KTP materials can be manipulated

Although denying employee involvement, Yudi acknowledged that technically, the physical card materials could be manipulated by certain parties.

He explained that the card’s layers could be peeled off before printed information is erased and replaced.

"Indeed, the card’s plastic can be removed, then erased, and reprinted," he explained.

"Such actions can be performed by certain individuals, so we strongly advise the public to stay vigilant," Yudi added.

He urged people not to rely solely on KTPs as identification in risky transactions, such as vehicle or goods rentals.

"Be cautious when using KTPs as proof or collateral, especially in rentals or similar activities. It’s best to verify with Disdukcapil," he advised.