Pramesh S Jain
In one of the largest anti-online betting operations in the country, the Karnataka State Cyber Command,in coordination with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C),has targeted and blocked nearly 8,750 betting websites,mobile applications and fraudulent betting URLs operating across India.
Acting on credible intelligence,specialized cyber investigation teams conducted a coordinated online operation and uncovered organized groups running illegal cricket betting platforms.
Investigators found that the operators were using mirror domains, sub-domains and cloned URLs to evade detection and continue their activities.
Based on the findings,the Cyber Command registered a case under Sections 66C and 66D of the Information Technology Act and Sections 318(4) and 319(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).Further investigation is underway.
Officials said the illegal betting networks had caused significant financial losses to thousands of citizens, while also exposing users to data theft,mental harassment and mounting debt.
Many vulnerable individuals reportedly lost their life savings after participating in credit-based betting schemes.
The crackdown has substantially disrupted the illegal online betting ecosystem and prevented further financial losses,officials said.
The Cyber Command has launched advanced technical investigations to trace money trails,identify betting operators and uncover the larger network behind the platforms.
Director General of Police,Cyber Command,Dr.Pronab Mohanty,said the agency remains committed to protecting citizens from cyber-enabled crimes and ensuring a safe digital environment.He also acknowledged the support of the I4C team for its assistance in the operation.
