Pakistan’s cybercrime authorities have intensified their crackdown on online scams, filing criminal cases against three popular YouTubers accused of promoting illegal gambling and betting apps.
The National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) confirmed that Rajab Butt, Anas Ali, and Hurairah face charges in Lahore under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and fraud-related laws. Officials say the trio misused their large social media following to market betting platforms banned in Pakistan.
According to investigators, the influencers acted as brand ambassadors for these apps, producing videos that encouraged users to invest money with the promise of unusually high returns. The FIR notes that many viewers, already under financial strain, poured savings into these schemes but suffered heavy losses when the promised profits never materialised.
The NCCIA said it issued three formal notices to the YouTubers during the inquiry, warning them to halt their promotions and appear before investigators. Despite repeated reminders, the accused failed to cooperate. Authorities then moved ahead with registering cases and are now pursuing legal steps to bring the influencers back to Pakistan for trial.
Officials stressed that all such gambling and binary trading platforms remain illegal in the country. “We will not allow anyone to exploit social media to mislead citizens or cause financial harm,” an NCCIA spokesperson said, adding that the crackdown will continue against those promoting scams online.
Earlier this week, a Lahore court rejected the bail application of YouTuber Saadur Rehman, popularly known as Ducky Bhai, in a case of alleged promotion of gambling apps. Rehman was taken into custody on August 17 from Allama Iqbal International Airport while attempting to leave the country.
Under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), Pakistan’s primary cybercrime law enacted in 2016, authorities can prosecute individuals for online fraud, misinformation, and unlawful financial activities. The legislation gives the NCCIA wide-ranging powers to investigate and block digital content deemed harmful or illegal. While the law has faced criticism for curbing online speech, officials argue that cases like this one highlight its role in protecting citizens from digital scams.
The action highlights growing concerns about the use of digital platforms to market fraudulent investment schemes. Experts warn that the reach of influencers makes the public more vulnerable, particularly young internet users who trust popular creators.
