Hyderabad Police Commissioner warns influencers, celebrities against fake lucky draws

Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar has issued a strict warning to social media influencers and celebrities running fraudulent lucky draw schemes, saying strict legal action will be taken against those cheating public under the guise of online promotions.

In a post on X on Saturday, the Commissioner expressed anger over influencers who, he said, were exploiting social media popularity to extort money from unsuspecting people by promising high-value prizes such as cars, luxury motorcycles, houses and expensive sound systems. He said that while these schemes were hyped through flashy reels and online promotions, the reality was outright deception.

Sajjanar noted that some influencers who earlier promoted betting applications had now shifted to organising so-called lucky draws after action was taken against illegal betting platforms. He accused them of luring followers with attractive prizes and then defrauding participants, many of whom were ordinary citizens drawn in by the promise of quick rewards.

Sharing videos of several such influencers on social media, the Commissioner made it clear that cases would be registered under the Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act, 1978. He underlined that there would be no exemptions in enforcing the law and said film personalities and social media stars would be treated no differently from anyone else.

Appealing to the public to remain vigilant, Sajjanar urged people to report any fraud being carried out in the name of lucky draws. Complaints can be made by calling Dial 100, sending details to the Hyderabad City Police WhatsApp number 94906 16555, or approaching the nearest police station.

He cautioned citizens against being swayed by tempting online promises and said the police would continue to act firmly against those misusing social media influence for financial fraud.