Despite stringent laws, illegal online betting apps continue to thrive

Kochi: The illegal online betting apps are finding one way or the other to stay in prominence even while strict actions are being initiated to curtail their activities. They are reportedly ‘changing names’ and springing back to action. It should be noted that the union government had banned betting apps on November 22 last year citing the socio-economic consequences of such applications. However, they continue to exist posing larger threats.

Inorder to gain traction, people behind such apps are taking the help of social media influencers. Ads are being circulated in multiple languages. In the advertisements, the apps are pitched in as legally authorised ‘operations’.

It should be noted that such practices are prevalent despite guidelines being issued for not promoting advertisements related to online betting websites/platforms. The bait here are opportunities to bet on various sporting events, plethora of gaming options and bonus in accordance with the rate of participation. Using the User ID or tokens, consumers can engage in betting via the apps.

The money transactions are done through UPI. The ‘consumers’ will also have an opportunity to interact with the betting agents via certain social media platforms. 

Kerala native Jiyas Jamal who is the founder of Cyber Security Foundation said that “a complaint has been forwarded to the central IT ministry citing the practice of hiring social media influencers for promoting illegal apps.”

Several apps are functioning in the cover of authorised online gaming apps. It should be noted that as per the law, registration and an office in the country are mandatory for running online gaming apps.

In February, 2023, the union government had banned 232 China-based apps. Out of this, 138 were betting apps and 94 were online lending apps. 

As per the IT rule 2021, online betting and gambling are illegal. As per amended IT rules, betting via gaming apps is also illegal in India.