Multi-crore betting racket targeting Telugu youths busted; 4 key Telegram influencers arrested

Hyderabad: A multi-crore betting syndicate was run through Telegram channels and unregulated websites has been busted. The scam, which operated under the guise of ‘fixed match tips,’ primarily targeted youth across Telugu-speaking States.

The Cyberabad Police Commissionerate has arrested four key Telegram influencers on June 24 and seized illegal commissions amounting to over Rs 2.75 crore.

Authorities have also launched action to block 10 associated betting websites as online betting is banned in Telangana under the TS Gaming (Amendment) Act, 2017.

It all started with a Toss Fix scam

A Miyapur resident approached the Cyber Crime Police on June 13 after he and his friend lost Rs 50 lakh and Rs 60 lakh respectively, lured by ‘guaranteed toss fix’ tips via Telegram groups.

The fraud led Cyberabad Police to uncover a widespread betting network involving multiple apps, websites and anonymous mule accounts.

Who was arrested?

Chinnamsetti Naga Rakesh, Pottavathini Deepak, Guguloth Sri Ram Naik and L Hemanth Kumar.

Websites targeted for takedown

Authorities have begun blocking 10 illegal betting websites, including stakeid.com, lotusplay247.com, fairplay.com, VIPBook.com, ultrawin.com/ultrawin.games, winbuzz.com, royalbook365.com, govinda365.io and lotusexchange.com

How the scam worked

1. Luring Victims: Influencers created exclusive Telegram groups claiming ‘insider’ access to fixed matches.

2. App Downloads and Account Creation: Users were directed to download APK apps or click on referral links to register on shady betting sites.

3. Fund Transfers: Deposits were made via UPI/IMPS/NEFT to mule accounts opened using fake Aadhaar and PAN cards.

4. Payout Manipulation: While small ‘wins’ were released to gain trust, larger withdrawals were blocked, pushing victims deeper into loss.

5. Influencer Commission Model: Each influencer earned 1-3 per cent per rupee bet, plus bonuses based on user engagement and geography.

What was seized?

The Police confiscated as many as 10 mobile phones, two laptops/tablets, five ATM cards, nine bank passbooks, two cheque books and a PAN card from the possession of the accused.

Public advisory

The Cyberabad Police urged citizens to stay away from online betting and be cautious of:

- Telegram groups claiming ‘fixed matches’

- Influencers promoting suspicious links or APKs

- Requests for UPI transfers to unknown accounts

- Report suspicious activity: Dial 1930

Impact on victims: Debt, depression and despair

Many victims lost their entire savings within weeks. Several suffered mental health crises and some even contemplated suicide after being scammed.

Cyberabad Police said that they are committed to prosecuting all facilitators, tracing crypto and offshore operators, freezing mule accounts and preventing future scams through surveillance and awareness.