The Union government has intensified its crackdown on illegal betting and online gambling, blocking 242 websites linked to unlawful wagering and gaming activities. Official sources said the move is aimed at safeguarding national security, protecting consumers and shielding young users from financial and social harm.
The latest action forms part of stepped-up enforcement following the rollout of a new regulatory framework for online gaming. In August 2025, the government had imposed restrictions on several real-money gaming applications as part of a broader effort to curb unlawful digital platforms.
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Over 7,800 illegal websites taken down so far
According to government data, authorities have so far taken down more than 7,800 illegal betting and gambling websites operating in violation of Indian law. These platforms were found to be facilitating large-scale illegal betting, online gambling and financial fraud.
Sources said many of the websites were hosted on overseas servers and frequently changed domain names to evade Indian regulations. The blocking exercise was carried out through coordinated action involving the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and other enforcement agencies.
Officials noted that the websites posed challenges to law enforcement due to their cross-border operations and use of anonymised payment channels.
Youth were primary targets
Investigations revealed that a majority of these platforms were aggressively targeting young users by promising easy money, quick returns and risk-free gaming. Most of them lacked transparency, grievance redress mechanisms or basic consumer protection safeguards.
Government officials said the proliferation of such platforms has led to growing concerns over financial losses, rising indebtedness, mental stress and broader social issues among users, particularly students and young professionals.
Crackdown on illegal walkie-talkie sales
In a parallel enforcement action, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has imposed penalties totalling ₹44 lakh on eight companies, including Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho and Meta Platforms, for facilitating the illegal sale of walkie-talkies on e-commerce platforms.
Consumer affairs secretary Nidhi Khare said investigations found that the walkie-talkies being sold were operating outside the licence-free 446.0–446.2 MHz frequency band.
Under existing regulations, such devices require prior authorisation before import, sale or use.
Sale without licence illegal
Officials said the import, sale and use of walkie-talkies without a valid licence is illegal and poses risks to public safety. Unauthorised devices can interfere with the communication systems of security and emergency agencies, creating potential national security concerns.
The CCPA underlined that e-commerce platforms have a statutory responsibility to ensure that products listed on their websites comply with applicable laws. Consumers were also advised to exercise caution and avoid purchasing communication devices that require regulatory clearance.
Tighter monitoring of digital platforms
Government sources said monitoring of digital platforms will be further intensified in the coming months. Enforcement actions — including blocking of platforms, financial penalties and legal proceedings — will continue against entities involved in illegal online gaming, betting and the sale of unauthorised equipment.
Officials stressed that the objective is not only strict enforcement of the law but also restoring trust in India’s digital ecosystem and strengthening consumer protection in the rapidly expanding online marketplace.
Advisory for citizens
The government has urged citizens to stay away from unauthorised betting and online gaming websites or apps and to report suspicious digital activity to the relevant authorities.
Officials reiterated that the crackdown reflects the Centre’s firm stance against illegal online activities and its intent to ensure that digital platforms operating in India adhere strictly to regulatory norms.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
