HYDERABAD: Hyderabad Cybercrime police have identified 124 social media profiles across various platforms over the past month that were promoting online gaming and betting apps and websites across India. As a precautionary measure, all the identified profiles were reported to the respective platforms and have since been taken down to prevent the further spread of unlawful content.
Police said the 124 profiles were actively running 539 paid advertisements. These ads were strategically designed to attract vulnerable users, particularly youth, by promising easy money, assured returns, bonuses and referral commissions. The profiles were systematically circulating promotional content, referral links and inducement-based schemes to lure the public into unlawful wagering and betting activities.
Further investigation is underway to trace the individuals behind these profiles and the financial channels linked to them. Legal action will be initiated against those found responsible under the relevant provisions of law.
Police said online betting and gambling activities are prohibited in Telangana, and participating in or promoting such activities may attract penal action. Many online betting and gaming apps operate from foreign jurisdictions and function illegally in India. These platforms often lure users with false promises of high returns, bonuses and referral commissions. Users also risk significant financial losses, data theft and the misuse of personal and banking information.