Social media has become a hotspot for trends, and one of the latest is influencers promoting gambling apps on Instagram Reels. These videos claim that users have purchased luxury cars, mobile phones, and even apartments using money earned from gaming apps. However, beneath these enticing promises lies a dangerous trap—illegal online gambling networks that can lead to severe financial and legal consequences.
The Kerala cyber police have stepped up their drive against influencers who are pushing illegal gambling apps, according to local media. Recently, Meta removed accounts of well-known vloggers like Wayanadan Vlogger, Mallu Family Sujin, and Fazmina Zakir after the Kerala Police’s intervention.
Many users, influenced by these promotional videos, invest their hard-earned money into gambling apps, only to face financial ruin. Additionally, gambling addiction can lead to severe mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.
Under the Kerala Gaming Act of 1960 and the Lottery Regulation Act of 1998, gambling is strictly prohibited in Kerala. Online games are categorised into two types: skill-based games, which are legal under certain conditions, and chance-based games, which are illegal and include betting and lottery-style apps.
A 2021 High Court verdict confirmed that only skill-based games are permitted. Gambling apps promoted on social media often fall into the category of chance-based gaming, making them illegal.
A dedicated cyber patrolling team under the Kerala cyber police actively monitors and shuts down illegal gambling activities. Several gambling apps have already been banned, and legal action is being taken against celebrities who endorse such platforms.
“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.
Several well-known influencers have begun endorsing gambling apps, enticing unsuspecting fans into these gambling sites. The influencers tend to portray gambling as a safe, profitable venture. But their posts are nothing, but a clever deception meant to take advantage of users.
Gambling app businesses offer influencers pre-written content to establish a fake success story. The influencers use demo accounts, where they are sure to win, to make the audience believe that the games can be won easily. The gambling apps do not exist on Google Play Store or Apple App Store, and thus they are extremely suspicious.
Social media influencers have to be responsible and ensure that their content complies with legal guidelines. Encouraging illegal gambling apps not only deceives followers but also puts influencers at risk of legal consequences. To determine and steer clear of scam applications, do not get those that are not found on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Watch out for influencers that offer easy money and always check the legality of the app before investing.
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