Online bingo remains strictly prohibited in Pakistan under the country's comprehensive anti-gambling legislation. The Prevention of Gambling Act, 1977, which extends to the whole of Pakistan, provides the legal framework for preventing all forms of gambling activities (1). This legislation criminalizes both operating gambling facilities and participating in betting activities, making online bingo illegal for Pakistani citizens. Islamic principles, which form the foundation of Pakistan's legal system, strictly prohibit games of chance, reinforcing the legal ban from a moral and religious standpoint (2).
The Prevention of Gambling Act, 1977 imposes significant penalties on individuals involved in gambling activities (1). Those who operate gambling facilities face fines and imprisonment, while participants in online bingo and similar games risk criminal prosecution. Pakistan does not have specific regulations addressing internet-based betting platforms like online bingo, creating a legal gray area for digital gambling activities (2). However, this absence of specific online gambling legislation does not make online bingo legal; rather, it falls under the broader prohibition established by existing gambling laws.
"While the law is clear on physical gambling establishments, online gambling exists in a legal gray area. Pakistan does not have specific regulations addressing internet-based betting, but authorities frequently block access to major gambling websites."
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority actively enforces the gambling prohibition by blocking access to online betting websites, including those offering bingo games (2). Authorities have blocked hundreds of gambling-related platforms to prevent Pakistani citizens from accessing these services. The Federal Investigation Agency's Cyber Crime Wing monitors and investigates online gambling activities, working to curb digital gambling operations (1). Despite these enforcement efforts, some individuals attempt to access offshore online bingo platforms using virtual private networks, though such activities remain illegal under Pakistani law.
Source:
https://www.pakistancode.gov.pk/english/UY2FqaJw2-apaUY2Fqa-bpuUY2lu-sg-jjjjjjjjjjjjj-con-11761
https://www.samaa.tv/2087331043-how-to-protect-yourself-from-gambling-scams-in-pakistan-detailed-guide
Last updated: 01-11-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
