We may have come across Instagram reels claiming that people have purchased mobile phones, flats, and vehicles using money earned from playing games, suggesting that others can do the same. However, using such apps could lead users into the trap of large illegal gambling networks operating without permission in the country. The Kerala Cyber Police has taken action against vloggers who post videos promoting these gambling apps.
Meta has removed the accounts of well-known vloggers, including Wayanadan Vlogger, Mallu Family Sujin, and Fazmina Zakir, who were found promoting these apps following instructions from the Kerala Police.
Get Latest Mathrubhumi Updates in English
Scripted promotional videos
Influencers create these videos based on scripts provided by gambling app companies. They use demo accounts given by the companies, ensuring they always win, thereby creating a false impression of easy earnings. Additionally, these influencers share links to gambling apps that are not available on the Play Store.
Illegal operations
According to the Kerala Gaming Act of 1960 and the Lottery Regulation Act of 1998, gambling is prohibited in the state. Online games are classified into two categories: skill-based and chance-based. As per a 2021 High Court verdict, only skill-based games are legal in the state. Games that rely on chance, betting, or prediction fall under the illegal category.
Cyber patrolling team to monitor fraudulent activities
A cyber patrolling team under the Kerala Cyber Police is actively monitoring online fraud. Several gambling apps have already been banned by the central and state IT ministries. Additionally, several celebrities are facing legal action for endorsing and profiting from such gambling platforms.
Social media influencers must act responsibly
“Social media influencers must ensure that the content they post on social media is legal. Accounts that promote gambling apps are under strict surveillance by the cyber patrolling team,” said Ankit Asokan, SP of Kerala Police Cyber Operations.