The Cyber Crime police of Hyderabad have identified and taken down 184 social media profiles that were involved in promoting illegal online betting, gambling, and fake investment schemes during the month of April. This action was part of an ongoing effort to curb unlawful activities on digital platforms.
Profiles Linked to Paid Advertisements
According to police officials, the profiles were discovered on Facebook and Instagram and were connected to 801 paid advertisements promoting gambling, betting, and investment schemes specifically targeting users in India. A statement from the Cyber Crime wing noted that these advertisements promised easy money, bonuses, referral commissions, and high investment returns to attract vulnerable individuals.
Use of Deepfake Videos and IPL Predictions
Investigations revealed that the profiles were not only sharing promotional content and referral links but also posting IPL predictions and, in some cases, deepfake videos featuring well-known personalities to lure the public into their schemes. This deceptive tactic was employed to gain trust and increase engagement.
Action Taken Against Profiles
The Cyber Crime police reported all 184 profiles to the respective social media platforms, which subsequently removed them as a preventive measure to halt the spread of unlawful and misleading content. Additionally, based on the violations detected, six First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered in April.
Broader Crackdown on Cyber Crimes
During cyber patrolling over the past few months, the cyber crime unit has identified and removed a total of 427 social media profiles and 1,903 paid promotional advertisements linked to online gaming, illegal betting, and fake investment websites that targeted Indian users. Police stated that further investigation is underway to identify the individuals behind these profiles and the financial channels associated with them.
Public Advisory Issued
The cyber crime unit also issued a public advisory, reminding citizens that online betting and gambling are prohibited in Telangana. The advisory cautioned the public against falling for fake high-return investment schemes, referral links, and deepfake promotional videos. Authorities urge anyone encountering such content to report it immediately to the cyber crime helpline.
