THE INTEGRATION OF ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS EDUCATION IN PREVENTING ILLEGAL SHARIA ONLINE LOANS

Abstract

The development of financial technology has increased the use of digital online loan services, including those operating under the label of sharia principles. However, the emergence of illegal sharia-based online loans has created various problems because many practices still contain elements of riba, gharar, and unclear contracts that contradict the principles of Islamic economic law. This study aims to analyze the integration of Islamic Religious Education in preventing illegal sharia online loans within academic environments. The research employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical method. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving students and lecturers of Islamic Religious Education. The findings indicate that students’ Islamic financial literacy remains relatively low, particularly in understanding the legality of sharia fintech services and identifying characteristics of illegal online loans. In addition, Islamic Religious Education learning tends to remain theoretical and has not fully integrated contemporary digital economic issues into the learning process. Therefore, the integration of Islamic Religious Education with sharia financial literacy is necessary as a preventive effort to develop moral awareness, understanding of halal transactions, and students’ critical attitudes toward illegal sharia online loan practices.