The advancement of information technology has given rise to new forms of crime in the
digital realm, one of which is catfishing conducted through the misuse of fake identities
to build emotional relationships with victims, which are then exploited in romance
scam schemes. This phenomenon causes both material and immaterial losses. The
results of this study indicate that the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP) and the Law
on Electronic Information and Transactions (UU ITE) remain relevant in addressing
cyber catfishing crimes. This research employs a normative juridical method, using
literature studies of statutory regulations, court decisions, legal theories, and scholarly
opinions. The KUHP can be applied through provisions governing fraud offenses.
However, it is general in nature and has not yet accommodated the specific
characteristics of cyber-based crimes. Meanwhile, the UU ITE functions as a lex
specialis in regulating the misuse of electronic information and electronic identities,
although it still has limitations, including the absence of explicit provisions on
catfishing, the potential for multiple interpretations of certain norms, as well as
challenges in cyber evidence and law enforcement