The Impact of Social Influence and Ease of Access on BNPL Customer Debt Risk in Indonesia: A Literature Review

Abstract

The rapid expansion of the digital economy in Indonesia has fundamentally shifted consumer behavior, particularly among Generation Z. Driven by strong social influence, including lifestyle trends and the fear of missing out (FOMO), there is a significant surge in the adoption of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services. While BNPL provides unprecedented ease of access to micro-credit, this convenience often collides with inadequate financial literacy, leading to impulsive consumption and severe financial distress. This study aims to systematically review existing literature to evaluate the dual impact of social influence and frictionless access on BNPL adoption, and how these factors contribute to the escalating customer debt risk among Indonesian youth. By employing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this paper synthesizes peer-reviewed articles and industry reports published between 2020 and 2026. The expected outcome of this review is to map the behavioral patterns driving impulsive BNPL usage and to clarify the correlation between ease of access and credit default risks. Ultimately, the findings will provide actionable insights and regulatory recommendations for policymakers and financial institutions to mitigate the systemic risks of debt traps in emerging digital markets.