Ever heard the term "gestun"? If not, don't worry, let's understand it together! "Gestun" is an abbreviation for "gesek tunai," which means "cash swipe," and it usually relates to credit cards. It sounds simple, right? But wait a minute, it turns out this practice can cause a lot of headaches if you don't know the rules.

So, the story is that "gestun" is a kind of instant solution to get cash from your credit card limit. But the problem is, behind this "convenience," there are big risks that are often ignored. In fact, this practice is declared illegal in Indonesia. So, to avoid making a wrong move, let's discuss "gestun" in more detail and why you need to be careful. Read on for more!

What is gestun?

"Gestun," or cash swipe, is actually a way to get cash from your credit card limit, but it's not through official channels. Usually, you need to visit a specific merchant, pretend to shop, swipe your credit card, and instead of getting goods, you get cash. The merchant will definitely charge an additional fee for this "service."

Now, at first glance, the way "gestun" works seems similar to a cash advance, but it's actually very different. With a cash advance, it's official, you withdraw money through an ATM or directly from the bank, and everything is recorded according to bank rules. The fees are clear, although quite large, and it's definitely safe.

Meanwhile, "gestun" is done through unofficial merchants, so the transaction is recorded like a regular purchase, even though the money is exchanged directly. Because this is not according to the rules, "gestun" is considered illegal in Indonesia.

Why is gestun illegal?

Credit card "gestun" is prohibited because it violates the rules set by the government regarding credit card usage. So, credit cards are actually only allowed to be used for real transactions, such as buying goods or paying for services. The problem is that "gestun" transactions are only pretend, the credit card limit is recorded as a purchase, even though the money is taken in cash.

The rules are in Bank Indonesia Regulation (PBI) Number 14/2/PBI/2012. This regulation explains that credit cards should not be used for fake transactions or data manipulation, including "gestun." Even merchants who provide "gestun" services are also at fault because they misuse their cooperation with banks.

Another reason "gestun" is prohibited is because of its huge risks. Imagine, "gestun" fees are usually more expensive than official credit card interest rates, so you could get trapped in even larger debt. Banks are also harmed because transactions become untransparent. In essence, "gestun" is considered detrimental to many parties, which is why it should not be done.

Risks of doing gestun

If you're still curious about "gestun," it's good to know the risks first. Don't just look at the "convenience," because behind it there are many things that can make you dizzy. Here are some "gestun" risks you need to know!

1. Significant additional fees

"Gestun" may seem like a quick way to get cash, but don't forget, merchants who provide this service don't give it for free. Usually, they charge additional fees that are quite large, often even higher than the official interest rate for credit card cash advances through ATMs.

For example, if you take an official cash advance through a bank, the fee might be around 4–6% of the amount you withdraw. But, if it's through "gestun," merchants can charge more than that, for example, 7–10% or even more depending on their policy. So, if you withdraw Rp5 million in cash through "gestun," you could be charged more than Rp500 thousand, not to mention other additions like hidden administration fees.

In addition, these fees are not officially regulated because "gestun" itself is illegal. Merchants can arbitrarily set rates without supervision. As a result, you end up spending more money than you thought. Instead of feeling helped, "gestun" can actually make your financial condition worse due to its untransparent additional costs.

2. Problems with the bank

Banks are strict about credit card usage according to applicable regulations. If you are caught using your credit card limit for "gestun," the bank can immediately take firm action, such as blocking your credit card.

Why? Because "gestun" is considered a violation of the credit card usage provisions regulated by Bank Indonesia. This practice records fake transactions, so banks cannot monitor credit card usage transparently.

In addition, if the merchant involved in "gestun" is investigated or entangled in legal problems, your transaction data could also be recorded, and your name might be included in the list of problematic customers. This could make it difficult for you to access banking services in the future, including applying for new credit cards or loans. Therefore, banks do not hesitate to take preventive measures to maintain the integrity of their financial system.

3. Debt can swell

Because of its high costs, "gestun" can make your credit card debt even larger. Not to mention if you can't manage debt bills, interest will continue to accrue. Instead of helping, "gestun" actually makes your finances more chaotic.

Rather than taking risks with "gestun," it's better to try a safer way with better financial management. If you're looking for a more flexible way to manage expenses, you can try checking out Honest credit cards. With a credit limit of up to Rp100 million, you can use this card more freely without fear of running out of limit. Plus, the flexible payment system makes it easier for you to manage bills according to your ability. So, if there's an urgent need, an Honest credit card can be a more convenient and safer choice, without worrying about additional fees or other problems.

Honest Card has several cool features that make your finances easier and more practical. Such as super-fast card application, it only takes 5 minutes and you can get approval within 2 hours! Another unique feature is that fees can be refunded 100% if you pay your bills in full. There's only one simple fee you need to pay, no hassle!

Honest credit cards are also safer because they are physically cardless, so you don't have to worry if they are lost. All your card data is safe in the application, only you can access it. In addition, you can also arrange payments as you wish through the application—whether to pay in installments, pay a larger amount, or pay in full immediately, everything can be easily arranged.

4. Legal risk

Finally, you must remember, "gestun" is illegal! Besides causing problems with the bank, which can immediately block your credit card, you can also be at risk of legal problems. Because "gestun" involves fake transactions that violate credit card usage rules, the authorities could investigate this case.

Moreover, if the merchant where you conducted "gestun" is entangled in legal problems, your name could be carried into the investigation process, even if you are only a party involved in the transaction. So, in addition to having a bad impact on your finances, "gestun" can also open the door to more serious legal problems.