Following the ban on betting apps, YouTube and social media influencers have shifted focus to lucky draws. They create heavy hype online and promise big rewards.
Many unsuspecting people are now being cheated through these misleading lucky draw promotions.
The issue has escalated, prompting Hyderabad police Commissioner VC Sajjanar to issue a public warning. He said authorities noticed people being lured with offers of bikes, plots, cars and even DJs through influencer-led lucky draws.
The Commissioner stated that income loss from betting app promotions has pushed influencers towards this new method. He warned that strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to mislead the public using such tactics.
Sajjanar said cases will be booked under The Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act, 1978. He made it clear there will be no leniency, even for celebrities or social media stars misusing their popularity.
To reinforce his message, the Commissioner also shared clips of popular lucky draw reels on social media. He said this was done to clearly show how such content is being used to deceive common people.