Lucknow: A disturbing case highlighting the dangers of online gaming addiction has emerged from the state capital, where a Gomtinagar-based engineer lost nearly ₹65 lakh over eight years while playing an online rummy game. The victim has alleged that despite repeated requests, the gaming company failed to deactivate his account, forcing him to approach the police.
According to the complaint, the engineer had created an account on an online rummy gaming application around eight years ago, registering it in his wife’s name. What began as casual gaming with small stakes gradually turned into a serious addiction. Over time, the amount of money wagered increased, resulting in continuous financial losses.
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When the losses mounted and the gravity of the situation dawned on him, the engineer decided to quit the game altogether. He said he repeatedly contacted the gaming company through emails and phone calls, requesting that his account be permanently closed. However, he alleged that the company ignored his requests and kept the account active, allowing the losses to continue.
The victim stated that he made every possible effort to overcome the addiction and even lodged a complaint with the cyber cell, but the app remained functional. He further alleged that the gaming platform was designed in a way that allowed users to temporarily block themselves, but the same account could be easily unblocked later, making it extremely difficult to stay away from the game.
Initial Incentives Used to Trap Player
The engineer claimed that during the initial phase, the gaming company offered him attractive incentives and small payouts, which created a sense of trust and encouraged continued participation. At intervals, he would receive small amounts ranging from a few thousand rupees, which, he alleged, were meant to lure him back into playing.
Caught in this cycle, he continued playing the game for years, eventually losing his lifetime savings. Left with no other option, the victim approached the Gomtinagar police station and filed an FIR, following which an investigation was initiated.
The engineer said he does not consume alcohol or drugs, but the online gaming app had gripped him so tightly that escaping it became extremely difficult. He has appealed to the public to remain cautious and not fall prey to the lure of online gaming platforms, warning that unchecked greed can lead to financial ruin.
₹54.33 Lakh Lost in Work-from-Home and Investment Scams
In a related development, several cases of cyber fraud have also been reported in Lucknow, where three individuals were cheated of a total ₹54.33 lakh on the pretext of work-from-home jobs and online investments. The victims have lodged complaints at the cyber crime police station.
One complainant stated that he received a WhatsApp message offering work-from-home assignments involving simple online tasks in exchange for payment. After receiving a small amount initially, his trust was gained. Later, fraudsters lured him with promises of higher returns and persuaded him to transfer ₹11.77 lakh through an online platform.
In another case, a woman was asked to post reviews for products listed on popular e-commerce platforms. After receiving a small payment initially, she was gradually convinced to deposit money for higher profits. Eventually, she transferred nearly ₹25 lakh. When she attempted to withdraw the amount, her user ID was blocked.
The third case involved an investment scam in which a man was promised high returns through an online group. After an initial profit to gain confidence, he was cheated of ₹17.6 lakh, following which his account was blocked.
Police officials said details of the bank accounts where the defrauded money was transferred are being collected, and efforts are underway to freeze those accounts. Further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
