Authorities in Hanoi have launched criminal proceedings against an SEO and digital marketing company. The company is accused of helping promote illegal gambling websites through search engine optimization and traffic generation services.
Police detained the firm’s chief executive and multiple employees as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged support for unlicensed gambling operators.
CEO and Employees Detained
According to local reports, Hanoi police initiated legal action against Super Thi Seo Media Services Co. Ltd. and detained CEO Pham Ngoc Manh along with 17 managers and employees.
Investigators allege the company presented itself as a legitimate SEO and digital marketing agency. However, the company primarily provided services designed to increase the visibility of illegal gambling platforms.
Authorities claim the company operated specialized teams focused on marketing, search engine optimization, information technology, customer support, and backlink development.
Alleged Promotion of Illegal Gambling Platforms
Police allege that the firm’s primary business activity involved improving search rankings and directing online traffic to unlicensed gambling websites. These sites were targeting Vietnamese users.
Investigators said the company generated revenue by providing website optimization services for gambling operators. These operators lacked official authorization to operate in Vietnam.
According to authorities, approximately 22 Vietnamese-language gambling websites benefited from the company’s services.
Cryptocurrency Transactions Under Investigation
Law enforcement officials stated that Pham Ngoc Manh allegedly managed 41 electronic wallets used to receive payments in USDT cryptocurrency.
Authorities believe the use of cryptocurrency and cash-based salary payments may have been intended to reduce transaction transparency. As a result, this would complicate financial tracking efforts.
Police estimate that since the beginning of 2026, the company generated approximately VND3.7 billion through services linked to gambling website promotion.
Assets Seized During Raids
As part of the investigation, authorities seized more than VND7 billion in cash and assets. These assets had reportedly been converted from cryptocurrency holdings.
Police also froze a savings account containing VND3 billion and confiscated 29 computers and 41 mobile phones during searches. All of these actions were connected to the case.
The seized equipment is expected to be examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have reportedly imposed travel restrictions on an additional 15 individuals believed to be connected to the case. These measures are in place while investigations continue.
Police classified the alleged offense as the illegal provision of information through computer and telecommunications networks. They cited activities including search engine optimization, website ranking services, and traffic generation for prohibited gambling platforms.
The case highlights growing enforcement efforts across Asia. Authorities are targeting not only illegal gambling operators themselves but also service providers that support their marketing and online visibility.
Vietnam continues to maintain strict controls on unauthorized gambling activities. Meanwhile, regulators and law enforcement agencies have increased efforts to disrupt digital networks that facilitate access to unlicensed gaming platforms.
