A growing wave of deceptive gambling apps is targeting vulnerable youth across South Punjab, drawing in students and unemployed individuals with the false promise of earning easy money from home. These apps, cleverly disguised as innocent mobile games, are causing both financial and psychological harm.
Rapidly spreading via social media, the apps lure users with vibrant visuals and enticing slogans. Once installed, they offer welcome bonuses—often Rs500 or more—to encourage users to start playing. Initially, players win small amounts, creating a false sense of success that leads them to invest their own money in pursuit of bigger rewards.
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Information technology experts warn that this initial “win” is part of a calculated trap. “I thought I could earn some side income by playing a game online. But within two weeks, I had lost Rs15,000,” confessed a college student from the region, requesting anonymity.
The story is alarmingly common. As users become hooked, they spend beyond their means, falling into a cycle of addiction, debt, and mental distress. What starts as casual gameplay can quickly escalate into obsession, leading to anxiety, depression, and strained family ties.
Authorities and digital safety advocates are urging greater regulation and awareness to curb the spread of these exploitative apps, which continue to prey on economic desperation and digital inexperience.
