Police Integrity in the Digital Era: Maintaining Ethics and Trust from an Islamic Legal Perspective

Abstract

In the digital era, the integrity of police officers, particularly members of the Indonesian National Police (Polri), faces new ethical challenges, especially regarding their use of technology and social media. This paper examines how Islamic legal principles can serve as a framework for maintaining police integrity in the digital age. Specifically, it addresses key ethical concerns such as privacy, the spread of misinformation, and the responsible use of digital platforms by law enforcement. The study focuses on three specific problems: (1) the ethical challenges faced by Polri officers in managing their online presence, (2) the risk of misuse of social media and violations of public trust, and (3) the role of fitnah (slander) in the digital environment. The objective is to explore how Islamic legal principles, such as Amanah (trust), Siddiq (truthfulness), and avoidance of fitnah, can guide Polri officers in navigating these challenges, ensuring their behavior aligns with both ethical standards and public expectations. The paper applies three main theories: (1) Islamic ethical theory, specifically related to Amanah and Siddiq, (2) the framework of social media ethics, and (3) organizational behavior theories in policing. This research employs a qualitative approach, including a comprehensive literature review, case study analysis, and expert interviews to gather insights. The findings suggest that by adhering to these Islamic ethical principles, Polri officers can mitigate the risks associated with digital engagement, maintain their professional integrity, and foster greater public trust. The paper concludes with recommendations for enhancing training, supervision, and internal policies to equip Polri members better to uphold ethical standards in the digital realm.