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The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has intensified its crackdown against gambling platforms in Pakistan.
Authorities announced that a total of 46 mobile applications were found facilitating widespread betting, casino-style gaming, and unregulated financial activities through digital platforms without proper legal oversight and have been declared illegal across Pakistan.
According to officials, some of the banned gambling apps include popular platforms such as 1xBet, Chicken Road, Aviator Games, Dafabet, 22Bet, Casumo, Rabona, 10Cric, Plinko, and Bet365.
The NCCIA warned that these applications not only promoted online betting but also encouraged money laundering. Many transactions occurred outside regulated channels, raising financial security concerns and creating risks for ordinary users.
Authorities further revealed that several unregulated forex and binary trading applications were also included on the list.
These platforms were operating without licenses, exposing users to scams and unlawful financial transfers.
Officials stated that such apps were used as a front for financial crimes. By bypassing regulatory mechanisms, they increased the threat of fraud, identity theft, and money laundering.
The NCCIA also flagged applications that unlawfully provided personal information such as SIM card records and mobile number details. Officials said these services could lead to misuse of sensitive data.
The NCCIA has formally requested the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to block all listed platforms. The process to restrict access to these apps is already underway nationwide.
Authorities urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid downloading unverified applications. They reiterated that protecting personal and financial security should be a top priority as cybercrime continues to rise in Pakistan.
It is worth noting here that the internet personality Saad ur Rehman, also known as Ducky Bhai was arrested for promoted illegal gambling platforms on social media, online gambling, and money laundering, encouraging his audience to invest in betting apps considered unlawful under Pakistani cyber and financial laws.
Investigators revealed the recovery of several mobile phones, suspicious WhatsApp contacts, and other digital evidence from the possession of Saad. They also claimed to have traced financial transactions connected to online gambling networks.
The FIR stated that Ducky Bhai exploited his digital influence to market these betting applications, thereby pushing many followers into unlawful financial activities that are strictly prohibited in the country.
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NCCIA further confirmed that a probe into his financial assets has been launched. Authorities are reviewing his income sources to track potential wealth generated through such illicit digital channels.
