The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen a massive rise in fan engagement since its inception in 2008. As its popularity grows, online betting platforms expand across India despite regulatory restrictions, but sometimes for the wrong reasons.
With IPL 2025 set to attract huge online traffic, cybersecurity threats are expected to rise. According to an India Today report, cybercriminals exploit low-security government websites to promote illegal betting advertisements.
This alarming trend highlights the need for stronger regulations and security measures to prevent unauthorized promotions and protect digital infrastructure from cyber threats.
Cyber Criminals Compromising Government Websites Betting — All You Need To Know
This issue came to light when a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Bombay High Court confirmed a recently reported incident.
IT consultant and University of Mumbai law professor Ruzbeh Dossabhoy Raja reported that numerous government websites have been contaminated with malicious programming codes that redirect users to betting websites.
On January 21, 2025, the Mumbai police website redirected users to “rslot6.com,” which displayed online betting options. By January 25, he discovered similar contamination on several other official government websites.
Here’s how the search results on Google show if someone searches for something related to betting and IPL:
Example #1 :
Example #2:
Now, a general user searching would see that a trusted website, especially a government official website, is sharing information about betting in IPL and would trust it blindly.
Cybercriminals have attacked many more such government websites to pose to be credible and share illegal betting services on them.
With IPL 2025 attracting massive online traffic, these security breaches are particularly concerning as cybercriminals exploit increased betting interest during the cricket season.
According to the PIL, such attacks on Maharashtra government websites have allegedly been happening since 2007, posing serious risks to users including identity theft, financial fraud, and exposure to illegal betting operations.
As of 27th March 2025, the issue is addressed where the government has issued 1410 blocking directions related to online betting/gambling/gaming websites
Why Are Government Websites Displaying Betting-Related Information?
Cybercriminals are exploiting poorly secured government websites to promote illegal IPL betting platforms. By injecting malicious content and manipulating search rankings, they make these compromised pages appear at the top of search results, misleading users.
One such platform, “01game.info,” is frequently linked to these attacks. Fraudsters insert IPL-related keywords and fake offers, enticing users to download betting apps.
The alleged website has a fair amount of link-support that it has received from over 90 websites directing to the main website.
Here’s the backlink profile for the betting website in question here:
For someone who is not into technical knowledge about SEO and how websites work, here’s an example of what this means:
“Imagine a shady restaurant paying random people (many with fake identities) to post 5-star reviews online. The restaurant appears popular, but the reviews are fake.
Similarly, “01game.info” uses hacked government websites (the “fake reviewers”) to trick Google into thinking it’s trustworthy.”
In the current case, the targeted websites include those of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal, raising serious cybersecurity concerns.
Here are the government websites listed in the image that were compromised by IPL betting cybercriminals:
- ds.cgstate.gov.in – Digital Secretariat, Chhattisgarh Govt
- document.kerala.gov.in – Document Govt Portal, Kerala
- dedwb.gov.in – Directorate of Commercial Taxes, Electricity Duty, West Bengal
- tax.lsgkerala.gov.in – Property Tax, Kerala
- sprstaging.samagra.gov.in – Samagra Mission Portal, Madhya Pradesh
- charity.maharashtra.gov.in – Charity Commissioner, Maharashtra
- dol.maharashtra.gov.in – Directorate of Libraries, Maharashtra
- tribal.maharashtra.gov.in – Tribal Department, Maharashtra
Why Are Government Websites Targeted by Cybercriminals?
According to this post by SentinelOne, government websites have been targets of cyber attacks since 2022.
Government websites are prime targets for cybercriminals due to their vast databases, sensitive information, and often weaker security measures. Hacktivists exploit vulnerabilities to steal confidential data, disrupt operations, or spread misinformation.
In recent cases, cybercriminals have used low-security government portals to host illegal betting advertisements, bypassing restrictions on gambling promotions. These attacks can also involve ransomware, phishing, and data breaches, posing serious national security risks.
With increasing digital threats, it is crucial for authorities to strengthen cybersecurity measures, update infrastructure, and enforce stricter regulations to prevent unauthorized access and safeguard sensitive government data from malicious actors.
Online Betting Apps And Their Legality In India
The legality of online betting in India remains complex and is an evolving issue.
As gambling laws vary from state to state. While physical casinos and betting are strictly regulated, online betting operates in a legal gray area due to outdated laws.
The Public Gambling Act of 1867 prohibits operating or visiting public gambling houses, making most physical gambling illegal.
However, since this law predates the digital era, it does not explicitly cover online betting issues in the current times.
There is no specific ban on online betting through foreign-based platforms at the federal level. Many international betting sites, like PariMatch, accept Indian users without facing legal restrictions.
However, some states, such as Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, have imposed strict bans on online gambling.
As online betting platforms continue to grow in India, users should carefully review state-specific laws before engaging in any form of online gambling.
How To Stay Safe Of These Cybercriminals?
Countering cybercriminals requires a multi-layered approach involving strong cybersecurity measures, strict regulations, and public awareness.
Governments must upgrade website security, implement firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems, and conduct regular security audits to identify vulnerabilities.
Authorities should enforce stricter cybersecurity laws and penalize cybercriminals while also tracking illegal online activities. Organizations must train employees on cybersecurity best practices, including recognizing phishing attacks and malware threats.
For individuals, using strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and choosing trusted & legitimate betting apps is an option.
Indian Government’s Stand On The Current Issue Of Cyber Attacks On Government Websites
According to a recent press release from GoI_MeITY(Ministry of Electronics & IT) on 27th March 2025, The Indian government has strengthened regulations for online gaming, enforcing 28% GST and 30% income tax on winnings.
MeitY blocked 1,410 betting/gaming sites (2022-25), while new laws impose stricter penalties for illegal gambling. Cybersecurity measures include the DPDP Act, I4C, and a national cybercrime portal for reporting fraud.
The Ministry of Home Affairs runs a reporting portal — https://cybercrime.gov.in, where users can register their complaints for any such issues. It also has a toll-free number – ‘1930.’
Safe and Legit Betting Apps For IPL
In India, choosing safe and legal betting apps for IPL is essential to avoid fraud and security risks. Internationally licensed platforms like Betway, Parimatch, 10CRIC, 1xBet, and Stake.com follow strict regulations, offering secure transactions, encrypted payments, and fair gaming policies.
Since Indian gambling laws vary by state, users should ensure the app is licensed and trusted before placing bets.
Look for platforms with positive user reviews, IPL 2025 schedule, responsible gambling features, and reliable customer support to ensure a safe and hassle-free betting experience.
1. Parimatch
Parimatch offers a modern IPL betting platform with a user-friendly interface, quick bet placement, diverse markets, unique prop bets, and competitive odds, ensuring a seamless and engaging mobile betting experience.
2. Stake.com
Stake.com is a popular choice for IPL betting, known for its sleek design, cryptocurrency transactions, and legal status in India. It offers diverse markets, competitive odds, fast payouts, and a user-friendly interface that attracts tech-savvy bettors.
3. 10 CRIC
10CRIC is a top choice for IPL betting, catering to Indian cricket fans with extensive markets, competitive odds, and exclusive promotions. Its cricket-focused approach ensures a tailored and engaging experience.
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Conclusion: Caution Needed For Cyber Criminal Activities On Betting Apps!
The increasing popularity of IPL 2025 has not only attracted sports enthusiasts but also cybercriminals looking to exploit vulnerabilities in government websites.
The misuse of low-security portals for illegal betting advertisements highlights serious cybersecurity concerns that need immediate attention.
With online threats evolving, stronger regulations, enhanced security measures, and public awareness are essential to combat such risks.
Authorities are actively fortifying digital infrastructure, implementing stringent legal measures, and partnering with cybersecurity specialists to combat threats and safeguard against future breaches
As IPL 2025 continues to engage millions, safeguarding government and public digital spaces should be a top priority to ensure a secure and regulated online environment!
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