Many people assume that betting apps powered by blockchain technology are free from any fraudulent intent. However, this is not true in all cases. Several such platforms operate outside the legal framework and may indulge in scam-like practices. A common question is whether the government actually monitors or regulates such platforms, and whether the code or operations of these applications are ever audited. In reality, the regulation of such online betting and gaming apps remains inconsistent, and the authorities often take action only when complaints are formally raised.

Advice in such cases

• Consult with Lawyer: The very basic and important step to start is talk to Lawyer / advocate. You should not hesitate in paying his consultation fee i.e. might be in range of Rs. 10,000 to 50,000 depends case to case. He is helping you in this situation of come out. He is expert in the domain and can help you explain the procedure which you might have never explored. A good lawyer can get the issues resolved much faster than you think
• Ensure that you verify the legality of the platform through proper licenses and approvals.
• If you have already invested, keep proper records of transactions, IDs, and communications as evidence.
• Avoid transferring further money until the authenticity of the platform has been properly confirmed.

Applicable Sections of Law

• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS), provisions related to cheating, fraud, and criminal breach of trust (Sections 316, 318, 321).
• Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), lays down the procedure for investigation and filing of charges against accused entities.
• State-specific regulations on betting and gambling, as most states in India prohibit unauthorized online betting/gambling operations.
• Information Technology Act, 2000, provisions regarding digital fraud, data misuse, and online scams.

If you are the complainant

• Consult with Lawyer: The very basic and important step to start is talk to Lawyer / advocate. You should not hesitate in paying his consultation fee i.e. might be in range of Rs. 10,000 to 50,000 depends case to case. He is helping you in this situation of come out. He is expert in the domain and can help you explain the procedure which you might have never explored. A good lawyer can get the issues resolved much faster than you think
• File a written complaint at the nearest police station or cybercrime cell stating full details of the transactions and people/company involved.
• Preserve evidence like payment receipts, app screenshots, communication details, and any relevant blockchain transaction IDs.
• Request the police to register an FIR under cheating and digital fraud provisions.

If you are the victim

• Consult with Lawyer: The very basic and important step to start is talk to Lawyer / advocate. You should not hesitate in paying his consultation fee i.e. might be in range of Rs. 10,000 to 50,000 depends case to case. He is helping you in this situation of come out. He is expert in the domain and can help you explain the procedure which you might have never explored. A good lawyer can get the issues resolved much faster than you think
• Don’t panic—report the fraud formally. Do not attempt to negotiate with unknown online operators.
• Secure your financial details: block linked UPI IDs, wallets, or cards used for transactions in the platform.
• Provide detailed information to police/cyber cell to strengthen the chances of tracing the suspects.

How the police behave in such cases

Police generally forward such complaints to the local cybercrime cell for technical investigation. However, effectiveness depends on whether the app is domestic or foreign-based. While police may take prompt action when sufficient evidence is given, international platforms may cause jurisdictional complications, leading to slower action.

FAQs people normally have

• Is online betting legal in India? Most betting and gambling apps are illegal in India unless specifically authorized by state government law.
• Can I get my money back? Recovery depends on tracing the operators and financial channels. International frauds take longer and may not guarantee returns.
• Can blockchain-based scams be detected? Yes, blockchain transactions are traceable, but real identity hiding makes detection difficult if foreign crypto exchanges are used.

What evidence is required?

• Bank statements and UPI/crypto transaction details.
• Copies of mobile screenshots showing app usage, conversations, or withdrawal failures.
• Any license details or company information shown in the app/platform.
• Email/SMS verification details provided during signup and transactions.

How long will the investigation take?

The investigation timeline varies between 3 to 12 months depending on the evidence availability, whether the accused are within Indian jurisdiction, and the level of cooperation from financial institutions. Cross-border cases usually take longer.

Advocate Sudhir Rao, Supreme Court of India

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