Hyderabad: The Cyberabad Police Commissionerate has successfully dismantled a sophisticated online betting syndicate operating through Telegram influencers, unauthorized betting websites, and mule accounts. This network tricked young people with fake promises of match-fixing tips. It also used strong social media ads to attract millions to illegal gambling sites.

On 13 June 2025, the complainant, a resident of Miyapur, was defrauded by "guaranteed TOSS FIX" predictions in Telegram channels. The complainant lost Rs 50 lakhs, while his friend lost Rs 60 lakhs.

Investigation

Four specialized teams from Cyberabad Cyber Crime Police Station (CCPS) were deployed to apprehend the accused across multiple cities. Four individuals were apprehended on 24th June 2025 in connection with the case. The arrested were identified as Chinnamsetti Naga Rakesh, Pottavathini Deepak, Guguloth Sri Ram Naik, and Hemanth Kumar.

Some of the illegal websites identified are www.stakeid.com, www.lotusplay247.com, www.royalbook365.com, www.govinda365.io, www.VIPBook.com, www.Fairplay.com, www.Lotusexchange.com, www.winbuzz.com, www.ultrawin.com, and www.ultrawin.games.

Modus Operandi of the scam

According to the Cyberabad police, The fraudsters ran a clever betting scam. They created private Telegram groups to lure victims with "exclusive insider tips" and "fixed matches." They used emotional tricks and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) to get users to register through side-loaded Android apps (APK files), special URLs, or influencer codes. Once victims were hooked, they deposited money through UPI, IMPS, or NEFT. This money went into mule accounts controlled by the syndicate. These accounts were opened with forged Aadhaar and PAN documents to avoid KYC rules.

“The gang laundered money by moving funds through many accounts. They also converted some of it into cryptocurrency. To keep their credibility, they sometimes paid out small "wins" using new mule accounts. However, high-value withdrawals were always blocked. This trapped victims in a cycle of growing losses. Influencers who promoted the scam made commissions of 1-3% on each bet. They also received monthly retainers. Some earned between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 80 lakh,” said a senior officer from Cyberabad commissionerate who investigated the case.

Scale of Operations

Investigation revealed that the syndicate operated from 2019 to 2025, primarily targeting Telugu-speaking regions but extending across multiple states. Their complex network used digital anonymity, fake documents, and psychological tricks. This helped them exploit thousands of victims before they were caught.

Consequences

Suicide and depression among victims. Entire life savings are often exhausted within weeks. Many become trapped in serious debt. Severe mental health crises afflict affected families.

Cyberabad police public advisory

Citizens are urged to exercise extreme caution against online betting scams. Fraudsters often trick victims on Telegram or social media. They offer "guaranteed predictions," "fixed matches," or "insider tips." These scams usually ask you to download unapproved APK files. They may also want you to join private groups or send money via UPI to unknown accounts. Authorities warn that these schemes can cause big financial losses. They may also lead to legal issues. If you see anything suspicious, please call the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 right away. Remember: if an offer appears too good to be true, it likely is a scam. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from financial fraud.