The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has intensified its crackdown on digital fraud and gambling promotions in Pakistan, issuing notices to several high-profile social media influencers accused of promoting unregistered gambling and online trading applications.
Influencers Summoned by NCCIA
According to official sources, Rajab Butt, Anas Ali, Iqra Kanwal, Hasnain Shah, and Irum Mehmood were served notices requiring them to appear before the NCCIA office in Gulberg 2, Lahore, on September 15 at 11 a.m. to record their statements.
The agency stressed that these individuals were previously summoned twice but deliberately avoided joining the inquiry. NCCIA warned that further absence would be treated as having “no defense or statement to present,” leaving the accused vulnerable to legal action.
The Allegations
Authorities allege that the influencers promoted gambling and online trading apps through their popular social media platforms, persuading young audiences to invest money in unregistered and unlicensed applications. According to investigators, this promotional activity was not accidental but part of a planned scheme that caused serious financial losses to the public.
The NCCIA emphasized that online gambling apps not only exploit citizens financially but also violate cybercrime laws and Pakistan’s financial regulations. Officials say these promotions mislead users into believing the apps are legitimate investment opportunities, when in reality, they often function as fraudulent betting platforms.
Earlier Arrests in Similar Cases
This crackdown follows the August 17 arrest of popular YouTuber Saad ur Rehman, widely known as “Ducky Bhai,” at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport. He was accused of playing a similar role in promoting gambling apps and misleading his fanbase into unsafe financial activities.
The NCCIA has since signaled that it will continue to pursue strict action against online influencers who misuse their platforms for financial scams, warning that the trend of “easy money” promotions will no longer be tolerated.
What Happens Next?
If the accused influencers fail to appear on September 15, the NCCIA is expected to move forward with legal proceedings, which could include arrests, fines, and a ban on their digital content. The agency has also urged social media users to report suspicious advertisements and refrain from engaging with unregistered apps.
Bottom Line
The case highlights the growing accountability of digital influencers in Pakistan. With millions of followers, content creators wield massive influence, but as this case shows, promoting illegal apps can carry serious legal consequences.
As the NCCIA continues its investigations, this incident serves as a strong reminder: online fame comes with responsibility, and misleading the public for profit will not go unpunished.
