The Cyberabad Cybercrime Police dismantled an illegal online betting network that preyed upon cricket enthusiasts via Telegram-based tips. Approved through social media influencers, the operation duped users into betting on fixed matches, resulting in substantial financial losses including at least ₹50 lakh by a single student. Four influencers have been arrested as part of the widening investigation.
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The Scam and Its Reach
The scam operated through a sophisticated blend of influencers and unauthorised betting platforms. Under promises of “exclusive insider tips” and “fixed matches,” Telegram channels cultivated trust among followers. A young trader from Miyapur lost ₹50 lakh, while a friend from Bhopal reportedly lost ₹60 lakh and, according to police, died by suicide due to mounting pressure.
Investigators discovered that the syndicate used emotional manipulation and Social Media-fueled “FOMO” (Fear of Missing Out) to entice more participants. Promotions included verified influencer endorsements, side-loaded Android APKs, special URLs, and unique referral codes.
Operation and Arrests
Police confirmed that four influencers were active facilitators, earning 1–3% commissions per bet, alongside monthly retainers some reportedly earning ₹25–80 lakh across the scam’s duration. Investigators traced the syndicate’s operations back to late 2019. Activity intensified during 2024, especially across Telugu-speaking regions and other parts of India .
Victims made deposits via UPI, IMPS, and NEFT into mule accounts, which were opened using forged Aadhaar and PAN documents. Funds were further laundered through multiple accounts and partly converted to cryptocurrency. Key aspects of the operation included occasional small payouts to maintain credibility and denial of large withdrawals.
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Police Response and Next Steps
Cyberabad Police have registered multiple cases under theft, cheating, and violations of the Telangana Gaming Act, along with IT Act provisions. They continue to analyze Telegram chat logs, transaction records, and digital trails. Courts have granted custody of the arrested influencers while enforcement agencies tighten regulations against online betting scams.
A senior investigating officer noted, “We urged users and relatives of affected individuals to come forward via the 1930 cybercrime helpline. Our focus is on uncovering the full network behind these influencers”.
About the Author – Anirudh Mittal is a B.Sc. LL.B. (Hons.) student at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, with a keen interest in corporate law and tech-driven legal change.