National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency declared 46 gambling and casino applications illegal nationwide.
The list has also been sent to the PTA to block these apps, as part of NCCIA’s crackdown on gambling platforms.
NCCIA banned gambling apps
The banned titles include Aviator Game, Chicken Road, 1xBet, Bet365, Dafabet, 22Bet, Melbet, Parimatch, Plinko, 10Cric, Rabona and Casumo.
Officials said several platforms mishandled users’ personal data and mobile numbers.
NCCIA also highlighted non-regulated forex and binary style trading apps that operate outside Pakistan’s financial laws.
This aligns with earlier guidance from the State Bank, which warns that offshore forex/CFD apps are not permitted for residents.
The PTA has been instructed to block access to all listed platforms.
The directive says the move aims to curb illegal online betting, reduce financial scams, and cut off data harvesting that targets everyday users.
Therefore, users must avoid downloading or funding gambling and unlicensed trading apps, and report suspicious links or payment requests.
As per the official statement if any citizen of Pakistan has accounts on such platforms, withdraw any remaining balances where possible.
Additionally, secure your data, change passwords, disable saved cards, and continuously monitor SMS/OTP activity.
Compliance is non-negotiable
Compliance is non-negotiable even for large scale advertisers present in these platforms and working from Pakistan.
Authorities have signalled that unregulated financial products and casino-style games marketed to Pakistanis will face removal and blocking.
Industry experts expect tighter advertisement scrutiny and faster takedowns, particularly for apps routed through social media.
The crackdown widens Pakistan’s push against illegal unlicensed finance coming from all over the world via gambling apps.
Stronger and regular public advisories, rapid PTA action, and simultaneous coordination with banks.
Coupled with secure payment processors will determine how effectively the ban protects users from financial loss and data misuse.
Previously on the topic: Shocking details behind Ducky Bhai money laundering case
