The chain of events began in 2021 when the victim received a WhatsApp message from a number claiming to represent an online betting platform. He was encouraged to play games such as cricket betting, Teen Patti and casino games, and was promised easy profits through a game described as ‘Fivestar Cricket Aviator Flight Game’. After initially depositing ₹10,000 and receiving a small return, he was persuaded to deposit larger sums, the complainant said.
An officer from the cybercrimes wing said the victim transferred ₹10 lakh in multiple transactions to various bank accounts provided by the operators in 2021, eventually losing the entire amount.
“In March 2022, the same persons contacted him again, claiming they were operating on another platform with a lower minimum deposit. Trusting them, the victim resumed playing and, between 2021 and 2025, deposited a total of ₹75 lakh through bank transfers, UPI IDs, QR scanners and cash deposit machines across multiple betting websites. He later realised that withdrawals were blocked and the money was irretrievable,” explained the officer.
Police said the acts amounted to cheating, online fraud and illegal online betting. The victim has sought registration of a case and investigation into the operators behind the platforms.
Issuing a public advisory, the cybercrime police cautioned people against illegal online betting and casino websites and apps that promise assured or easy returns. They said fraudsters typically approach victims through messaging platforms or social media, show small initial profits to gain confidence, and later induce large deposits through multiple payment methods. “These platforms are unregulated and illegal, and participation can also attract legal consequences,” warned the officer.
Published – December 15, 2025 07:40 pm IST
