In a major nationwide crackdown on illegal online betting, authorities in India have blocked more than 8,750 digital platforms, including websites, mobile apps, mirror domains, sub-domains, and cloned URLs. The action is being described as one of the largest operations against online betting networks in recent times. The operation was carried out by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) with support from the Karnataka State Cyber Command. Officials said the targeted platforms were part of a widespread illegal ecosystem promoting online gambling and fraudulent betting activities, particularly involving cricket-related betting networks.
According to officials, coordinated cyber intelligence efforts helped identify organized groups running these illegal platforms. Investigations revealed that operators frequently used mirror sites and cloned domains to hide their identity and continue operations despite repeated takedown efforts. Authorities further stated that cases have been registered under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act, including Sections 66C and 66D, along with provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Sections 318(4) and 319(2). The investigation is still ongoing, and further legal action is expected.
Officials also warned about the severe social and financial impact of such illegal betting networks. Many citizens reportedly suffered significant financial losses, debt, data leaks, and mental stress due to involvement in these platforms, with some even losing their life savings. The crackdown, they said, has significantly disrupted the illegal betting ecosystem and aims to prevent further public financial harm.
