Pakistan National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has taken action against a group of social media influencers for promoting illegal online betting and trading apps—a gambling scam that has reportedly misled thousands of young users.
Why Influencers Are in Trouble
According to investigators, creators promoted unlicensed betting and trading apps in exchange for payments and affiliate commissions. These apps promised easy winnings but ultimately caused massive financial losses to unsuspecting users.
The cyber crime agency has issued official notices, demanding influencers present transaction records, promotional contracts, and evidence of their involvement with app operators.
Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has launched Inquiry No. 4807/2025 to track illegal financial flows. Several influencers have already appeared before investigators, while more summons are expected in the coming weeks.
Officials confirmed that the case falls under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act and fraud-related statutes. If proven guilty, both app operators and promoters could face severe penalties.
Who Was Summoned?
On September 2, 2025, NCCIA demanded that several creators show up at their Lahore office. Those officially summoned include:
Mudassar Hassan
Muhammad Anas Ali
Iqra Kanwal
Muhammad Husnain Shah
Missing the summons could be seen as admission of guilt or a refusal to defend themselves.
Other Influencers Under Target
Besides those summoned, several well-known public figures have been named for promoting the illicit platform “World 777”:
Nadir Ali (YouTuber)
Mathira (model & media personality)
Aimen Zaman
Varda Malik
Javeria Aurangzeb
Abeera Khan
Faryal Fairy
Nauman Kazmi
Additionally, YouTuber Saad ur Rehman (Ducky Bhai) is already in custody. NCCIA alleges he earned up to Rs 5.5 million (~$20,000 USD) per promotion and was detained at Lahore Airport while trying to leave the country
Other names mentioned in connection to the broader investigation include Rajab Butt, Jannat Mirza, and Rajab Butt’s name appears in some accounts of scrutiny.
How Did the Scam Work?
Influencers posted glamorous content—like winning moments or promises of quick income—to lure users into downloading apps.
The app “World 777” and others offered games or trading schemes, often promising easy wins.
Users would deposit money—only to face blocked withdrawals or disappearances of funds.
Money flowed out of Pakistan through unregulated channels, forming a shadow economy.
What’s the Official Response?
46 gambling and trading apps were declared illegal. Names include 1xBet, Bet365, Dafabet, Aviator Game, Chicken Road, Plinko, and many more. These platforms often violated privacy and financial regulations.
Telecom and financial authorities are being asked to block these apps and transactions across Pakistan.
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Why It Matters
Influencers owe responsibility to their audience—most of whom are impressionable youth.
Platforms must enforce advertising rules to prevent harmful promotions.
Authorities and users need to strengthen digital literacy and vigilance.
Summary
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Summoned Influencers | Mudassar Hassan, Anas Ali, Iqra Kanwal, Husnain Shah |
| Other Figures Named | Mathira, Nadir Ali, Aimen Zaman, Varda Malik, Javeria Aurangzeb, |
| Abeera Khan, Faryal Fairy, Nauman Kazmi | |
| High-Profile Arrest | Ducky Bhai (Saad ur Rehman) |
| Illegal Apps | 1xBet, Bet365, Aviator Game, Plinko, Chicken Road, Dafabet, etc. |
| Agency Action | NCCIA summons, app blocking via PTA, enforcement of PECA laws |
Final Thoughts
The decision by Pakistan’s cyber crime agency to summon influencers marks a significant step in tackling online betting fraud. By holding creators accountable, authorities aim to break the cycle of illegal app promotion and protect digital users from financial harm.
As the investigation continues, the case serves as a reminder that digital influence comes with responsibility. Trust, transparency, and compliance with the law are no longer optional—they are essential for creators and platforms alike.
