Warning Issued Over Online Gambling Linked to Blind Box Games

On January 7, the police in Ho Chi Minh City released a warning regarding a concerning rise in online gambling presented as a blind box or mystery bag game.

This trend, which is becoming increasingly popular on social media platforms, raises alarms for illegal gambling activities.

Various influencers on platforms like YouTube and TikTok are hosting live streams where participants pay between 20,000 and 50,000 VND (roughly $0.85 to $2.15) for ticket numbers related to blind boxes. These hosts assert that the boxes may contain valuable items such as toys, jewelry, or luxury items.

The winners are determined during the live stream when dice are rolled, and the holder of the matching number receives the prize from their purchased box.

What began as a means to engage viewers and increase sales has evolved into a potential gambling scheme, prompting police action.

According to law enforcement, the blind box game fundamentally revolves around betting and chance, classifying it as illegal gambling. The organizers benefit from the gap between the earnings and the actual value of the contents within the boxes.

Authorities are urging the public to report any live streams that encourage this type of covert gambling or similar activities. Information can be forwarded to the relevant agencies for appropriate investigation and intervention.

Furthermore, those who host these ticket sales for blind box games could face legal repercussions for facilitating gambling. Participants who unknowingly engage in such games may also be subject to legal actions.