The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has intensified its fight against digital crime by banning 46 mobile applications across Pakistan. This sweeping action directly targets illegal betting, forex and binary trading apps in Pakistan, and it also led to the high-profile arrest of YouTuber Saadur Rehman, better known as Ducky Bhai.
46 Apps Declared Illegal
The NCCIA explained that these apps violated national laws and encouraged widespread gambling and unregulated financial activity. Among the banned platforms are 1xBet, Chicken Road, Aviator Games, Dafabet, 22Bet, Casumo, Rabona, 10Cric, Plinko, and Bet365.
Moreover, the crackdown covers unregulated trading apps such as Binomo, IQ Option, Pocket Option, Deriv, Olymp Trade, OctaFX, and Quotex. Authorities stated that these services often trick users with false promises of high returns, yet they frequently end in scams, illegal transfers, or heavy losses. Therefore, their removal is considered a crucial step toward protecting financial stability.
Privacy Risks and Data Theft
In addition, the NCCIA highlighted apps that collect sensitive personal information. These include SIM Owner Details, Pak SIM Data, Sky SIM Data, and SIM Tracker.
Officials warned that such apps expose citizens to privacy breaches, unauthorized surveillance, and even identity theft. Consequently, banning them reduces the chances of criminal misuse of mobile numbers and SIM card records.
PTA Ordered to Block Apps
The agency has officially directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to ensure a nationwide block on these 46 apps. This includes removing them from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and local hosting sites.
Furthermore, authorities urged citizens to immediately uninstall any of the flagged apps already present on their phones. They also encouraged users to report suspicious applications to help curb the spread of illegal platforms.
YouTuber Ducky Bhai Arrested
Meanwhile, the crackdown also uncovered a shocking development: the arrest of popular YouTuber Saadur Rehman, known as Ducky Bhai. According to investigators, he allegedly acted as the “country manager” for several gambling platforms, including 1xBet, while promoting them on his channel.
As a result, he earned millions through affiliate marketing deals with these apps. When he repeatedly ignored Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) summons, authorities placed his name on the Provisional National Identification List (PNIL), which finally led to his detention.
He now faces charges under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act and sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, including:
- Fraud
- Electronic forgery
- Cheating
- Prize manipulation
Importantly, online gambling is strictly prohibited in Pakistan under the Public Gambling Act, 1867 and the Prohibition (Enforcement of Hudood) Order, 1979. Offenders may face fines, imprisonment, or both, with repeat offenders risking up to three years in prison.
Why This Crackdown Matters
The NCCIA believes that this action will create multiple benefits for the public:
- Financial protection: Many forex and binary apps exploit citizens with misleading claims. Consequently, banning them limits large-scale fraud.
- Data security: By removing SIM-data apps, the agency aims to safeguard citizens from identity theft and unauthorized data sales.
- Stronger enforcement: This bold move demonstrates that NCCIA is ready to enforce cybercrime laws strictly, even when influential figures are involved.
Expert Commentary
Cybersecurity specialists praised the move. One expert said, “Apps offering quick money are almost always scams. NCCIA’s action, therefore, prevents thousands of users from losing their savings.”
Similarly, a financial analyst added, “The arrest of Ducky Bhai sends a powerful message. Influencers can no longer profit from promoting gambling apps without consequences.”
Next Steps
Looking ahead, the NCCIA expects swift cooperation from the PTA. However, simply blocking apps is not enough. Citizens must remain alert and avoid risky downloads.
Moreover, the agency has indicated that further investigations may target affiliates, promoters, and even advertisers linked to gambling platforms. Therefore, more arrests and legal cases could follow in the coming weeks.
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Finally, authorities stressed that public awareness campaigns are crucial. Without educating users, illegal apps may resurface under new names. Consequently, NCCIA plans to launch nationwide programs to promote digital literacy and safer online behavior.
