Cuts (Consumer Unity & Trust Society) International has caused an alarm over explosive growth of illegal online gambling platforms in India, warning against serious threats for minors, young adults and national financial integrity. With estimated annual deposits approaching $ 100 billion, the message asks for an immediate regulatory intervention to combat this growing threat.
It turns out that from April 2024 to March 2025, the 15 best illegal gambling platforms have received more than 5.4 billion visits through 40 mirror sites.
“These operators use Indian advertising and payment systems, sipper Crores and at the same time indicate Indian consumers at the risk of serious risk. The absence of regulatory guarantees has made fertile soil for these platforms,” said Pradeep Mehta, Secretary General.
The report indicates how illegal operators focus vulnerable youth through absorbing experience with a high share, by circumventing protocols on age verification and identity. According to the report, few platforms use psychological tactics to attract users looking for sensations, while some players at sea even accept payments for deliiver, allowing minors gambling without digital access or supervision.
The report also states that a large number of users’ operations – more than 66% – come via direct URL or private channels, indicating a high degree of brand knowledge and confidence.
According to the report, the illegal tactics of payments include UPI abuse, mule accounts and sophisticated means AppSta Fonds under the radar. While the Ministry of Finance launched an investigation into nearly 700 offshore entities and blocked 357 websites, the report states that much more needs to be done.
Cuts recommends a robust national framework supported by inter -frame working group, cooperation with technology companies, campaigns to raise public awareness and behavioral research on gambling dependence. It also urges strong measures to monitor and block illegal websites and financial transactions. The message indicates the current approach of India “Manual and Reactive”.
Published – 1 June 2025 9:33
