Hundi 2.0: How Pakistani Expats Bypass Bank Transfers via TikTok

Introduction

In an era of digital finance and strict banking regulations, the informal remittance system known as Hundi or Hawala continues to thrive, evolving with modern technology. Pakistani expatriates, who send billions of dollars home annually, are increasingly turning to social media platforms like TikTok to bypass high bank fees and government scrutiny.

This article explores the rise of Hundi 2.0, how digital platforms facilitate informal money transfers, the legal and economic implications, and whether such transactions pose risks to users and the broader economy.

Image credit: https://h3m.io/h3m-blog-ai-in-aml/f/chatgpt-a-powerful-tool-for-financial-crime-specialists

What is Hundi, and Why is It Still Popular?

Hundi (or Hawala) is an informal and unregulated system for transferring money outside formal banking channels. It operates on trust rather than electronic records, allowing people to send cash without physical movement across borders.

Why Do Pakistani Expats Prefer Hundi Over Banks?

1. Avoiding High Bank Fees – Traditional remittances via banks or services like Western Union can charge high fees, making Hundi a more attractive option.
2. Faster Transfers – Hundi transactions are often instantaneous, whereas banks may take days to process payments.
3. Better Exchange Rates – Since Hundi traders operate on a black market exchange rate, they often provide a higher conversion value than banks.
4. Avoiding Government Scrutiny – Many people send money to avoid tax authorities or foreign exchange regulations.

Despite being illegal in Pakistan and many other countries, Hundi remains a preferred remittance method, and social media has now given it a new platform—especially TikTok.

How TikTok Became a Hub for Hundi 2.0

Social media, particularly TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp, has given a new face to the centuries-old Hundi system.

1. Hundi Agents on TikTok

A growing number of TikTok accounts openly advertise “easy and fast” money transfers for Pakistani expats in Saudi Arabia, UAE, the UK, and the US. These accounts:

• Post short videos explaining how the system works.
• Display testimonials from users who successfully transferred money.
• Provide WhatsApp numbers for direct deals.

2. How Transactions Are Carried Out

The process typically involves:

1. The sender contacts a Hundi agent via TikTok or WhatsApp.
2. They deposit cash to a local agent in their country of residence.
3. The equivalent amount is given to the recipient in Pakistan at an agreed rate.
4. The entire process is completed within hours, with no bank involvement.

3. Why Authorities Struggle to Crack Down

• Transactions are disguised as gifts, business payments, or cryptocurrency trades.
• Agents frequently change usernames and contact details.
• Encrypted WhatsApp and Signal chats make tracking difficult.

The Economic Impact of Hundi 2.0 on Pakistan

While Hundi may seem like an easy way to send money, it has serious economic and security consequences:

1. Loss of Official Remittances

Pakistan heavily relies on remittances, with expats sending over $30 billion annually. Hundi transactions bypass the formal banking system, depriving the economy of much-needed foreign exchange.

2. Impact on Foreign Reserves

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) relies on remittances to stabilize the rupee. When people send money through Hundi instead of banks, dollar shortages increase, leading to rupee devaluation.

3. Money Laundering and Terror Financing Risks

Governments monitor formal banking transactions to prevent illegal activities, but Hundi allows money to move undetected, raising concerns about money laundering and terror financing.

Legal Consequences of Using Hundi for Expats

While Hundi might seem like an innocent shortcut, it carries serious legal risks for both senders and recipients.

1. Criminal Charges and Heavy Fines

• Many countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the UK, and the US, have strict anti-money laundering (AML) laws.
• Sending money through Hundi can result in heavy fines, jail time, or deportation.

2. Confiscation of Money

Authorities in Pakistan and other countries have been cracking down on illegal money transfers, with many cases where:

• Large sums of cash have been seized from illegal operators.
• Bank accounts linked to suspicious transactions have been frozen.

3. No Legal Protection

Unlike banks, where customers have dispute resolution mechanisms, Hundi users risk losing money permanently if the agent disappears or gets arrested.

Image credit: https://advertisingweek.com/tiktok-tiktok-how-mainstream-media-are-playing-catchup-with-the-tiktokification-of-consumers/

How Can Pakistani Expats Send Money Legally?

While Hundi is tempting, there are safer, legal ways to send remittances:

1. Official Banking Channels

Expats can use official banking services like wire transfers, mobile banking, and digital wallets to send money home. Banks offer:

• Secure transactions
• Government-backed exchange rates
• Protection from fraud

2. Online Remittance Services

Several global services provide low-cost, fast remittance solutions, including:

• Western Union
• MoneyGram
• Wise (formerly TransferWise)
• Payoneer

3. Pakistan Government’s Roshan Digital Accounts (RDA)

The State Bank of Pakistan launched RDA accounts to encourage expats to send money legally. Benefits include:

• Tax incentives
• Competitive exchange rates
• Investment opportunities

Conclusion: The Future of Hundi 2.0

The rise of TikTok-based Hundi has added a new challenge for regulators, but authorities are taking steps to curb illegal remittances. As the Pakistani government improves banking accessibility, it’s crucial for expats to use legal remittance channels to support the country’s economy and avoid legal trouble.

While Hundi may seem fast and convenient, the risks—financial loss, legal consequences, and national economic harm—far outweigh the benefits.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not endorse or promote illegal financial activities. Readers are encouraged to use legally recognized financial services and comply with local and international banking regulations when sending money abroad.