The web of cyber fraud spreading across the country is taking a newer and far more sophisticated shape. The gangs that once depended on buying gaming-app franchises are now building their own apps, trapping users — and draining bank accounts within minutes.
Investigations have revealed that these groups not only develop gaming apps but also sell their franchises — turning the entire operation into a highly organised business model.
According to sources, the network is being run from Varanasi, Goa and Odisha, with multiple modules handling development, marketing, transactions and cash withdrawals.
Teams created to build and operate apps
In the initial phase, the accused allegedly purchased gaming-app franchises from outside companies. Users were lured with bonuses, rewards and promises of quick profits.
Gradually, the fraudsters formed their own in-house development teams and learned how to design and control apps themselves. Once the technology was under their control, they began selling franchises further, expanding the network rapidly.
Their method works in stages:
- First, small rewards are credited to gain trust
- Users are encouraged to deposit higher amounts into in-app wallets
- Once large sums accumulate, the app suddenly stops working
- Servers disappear — and the money vanishes
Transactions of up to ₹50 lakh in a single day
Police sources claim that several apps were handling transactions of up to ₹50–50 lakh a day. In the preliminary investigation alone, over ₹20 crore in suspicious movement of funds has surfaced.
The money is routed through multiple accounts and then cashed out by separate handlers, many of whom already face criminal cases.
Bank accounts in Mirzapur, Chunar, Kachhwa and parts of Varanasi are currently under surveillance.
CPT raises alarm: “People are losing money while playing games”
The Cyber Police Technology (CPT) unit has expressed serious concern over this trend.
According to CPT experts:
“Fraudsters are blending gaming, rewards and online investment into a single trap. The app looks completely legitimate on the surface, but the backend is fully controlled — one click and the user’s money disappears.”
CPT has also warned that several of these apps are hosted on foreign servers, frequently shifting their locations and operators — making investigation and shutdown efforts more complex.
Multiple suspects under scanner
Several accused are already named in earlier FIRs, while more unidentified suspects are now on the police radar. Investigators believe the network is inter-state and operates through layered teams to avoid detection.
What citizens should — and should not — do
CPT and police have issued an advisory:
- Do not invest money in unknown gaming or betting apps
- Avoid platforms promising “100% guaranteed profit”
- Report suspicious transactions immediately to your bank and the national cyber helpline
- Always read reviews, permissions and policies before downloading any app
Experts add that cybercriminals today use a mix of technology, marketing psychology and social manipulation — which is why blind trust on any link, app or scheme can prove costly.
Investigation continues, challenges remain
Police say the probe is moving ahead using bank trails, digital logs, IP tracking and movement of funds. However, the use of crypto channels, fake accounts and multi-layered transfers often slows down the process.
Even so, cyber units claim that several members of this network have been identified — and major action is expected soon.
