The Penalty Kick of Reality: My Journey Through Online Gaming in India

Namaste, fellow gamers! I'm Rajesh Kumar, a casino games enthusiast from the bustling city of Mumbai. For the past two years, I've been navigating the exciting, yet often treacherous, waters of online casino games. From the thrill of a well-placed bet to the frustration of technical glitches, I've seen it all. Today, I want to talk about a game that caught my eye recently: Evoplay's 'Penalty Shoot-Out'. It's a simple, engaging game where you pick a spot, shoot, and hope to score against a virtual goalkeeper. Sounds fun, right? And it is, for a while. But as an Indian player, my experience with online gaming, including games like Penalty Shoot-Out, has often been a mixed bag, riddled with challenges that go beyond just beating the goalie. This isn't just about one game; it's about the larger landscape of online gambling in India and the real problems we, the players, face every single day.

Game Mechanics: A Simple Kick to Fortune

Let's start with the game itself. 'Penalty Shoot-Out' by Evoplay is an instant-win game that simulates a football penalty shootout. The mechanics are straightforward: you choose one of five target spots in the goal, and then you shoot. The goalkeeper reacts, and if you score, you win. The game boasts an RTP (Return to Player) of around 96%, which is decent for an online casino game. You can choose your country, which adds a nice touch of personalization, especially for us Indians who love our football! The simplicity is its charm – no complex rules, no lengthy tutorials, just pure, unadulterated penalty action. You place your bet, aim, shoot, and either celebrate a win or lament a miss. It's quick, it's engaging, and it can be quite addictive, especially when you're on a winning streak. I remember one evening, after a long day at work, I decided to unwind with a few rounds. I started with a modest ₹500 bet, and after a few successful shots, I managed to double it. The adrenaline rush was real! But that excitement, I've learned, often blinds us to the underlying issues that plague the online gaming world in India.

The Major Problems Faced by Indian Players: Beyond the Game Itself

While 'Penalty Shoot-Out' itself is a well-designed game, the real problems for Indian players often stem from the broader online gambling ecosystem. It's not just about the game's fairness, which Evoplay claims is ensured by a 'Provably Fair' algorithm and regular audits [12, 13]. The issues we face are far more systemic and often go unaddressed.

1. The Addiction Trap: A Silent Epidemic

One of the most pressing issues, and one I've witnessed firsthand among friends and acquaintances, is the alarming rise of gambling addiction. The ease of access to online betting apps, coupled with aggressive advertising campaigns, has created a dangerous environment. I've seen how a casual ₹100 bet can quickly spiral into losing thousands, sometimes even lakhs, of rupees. Santosh Kol's story, losing ₹40,000 meant for his tuition within a month of using betting apps, is a stark reminder of this harsh reality [6]. It's not just about losing money; it's about the mental health implications, the stress, the anxiety, and the impact on families. The National Council on Problem Gambling highlights the global issue, and in India, where gambling prevalence can be as high as 46% in some regions, it's a major public health concern [4, 10]. Yet, resources for help are incredibly limited, with only two institutions addressing this clinically in India [15].

2. The Scammer's Playground: A Web of Deceit

Common Scam Schemes Analysis

Online gambling in India has become a fertile ground for scammers. The infamous Mahadev Betting App case, a ₹40,000 crore scam, exposed the dark underbelly of unregulated online betting [16, 19]. This wasn't an isolated incident. I've heard countless stories, and even had a close call myself, with apps that promise big wins but are designed to manipulate outcomes. These scams often operate on a simple principle: small bets win, luring players in, while larger bets are rigged to lose [18]. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been actively investigating these illegal networks, with many linked to foreign entities and funneling huge sums of money out of the country [17, 21]. It's a constant battle to distinguish legitimate platforms from fraudulent ones, and many innocent players, like the private firm employee who lost ₹39.7 lakh, fall victim to these sophisticated schemes [23].

3. Technical Glitches and Platform Instability: The Frustration is Real

While Evoplay's Penalty Shoot-Out generally runs smoothly, the broader experience with online casino platforms in India can be frustrating due to technical issues. I've encountered numerous instances of apps crashing mid-game, payment gateways failing, and slow loading times. Imagine being on a winning streak, only for the app to freeze, and when you restart, your winnings are gone, or your bet is lost. It's infuriating! These technical problems are often exacerbated by inconsistent internet connectivity in many parts of India, leading to disconnections and lost progress. While some platforms are improving, many still lack the robust infrastructure needed to handle the massive influx of players, leading to a subpar and often unfair gaming experience.

4. Payment and Withdrawal Woes: The Money Maze

Getting money into and out of these platforms is another significant hurdle. While UPI and other Indian banking methods are widely accepted, the process isn't always seamless. I've faced delays in withdrawals, sometimes waiting days for funds to reflect in my bank account. Some platforms have convoluted KYC (Know Your Customer) processes that make withdrawals a nightmare. There are also concerns about the security of personal financial data on some of these less reputable sites. The government's imposition of a 28% GST on online gaming and a 30% tax on winnings further complicates the financial landscape for players, making it even more crucial for platforms to have transparent and efficient payment systems [14].

5. The Legal Labyrinth: A Grey Area

The legal status of online gambling in India is a complex and often confusing subject. Gambling is primarily regulated at the state level, leading to a patchwork of laws. Some states, like Goa, have legalized certain forms of gambling, while others, like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, have outright prohibited all online gambling activities, including skill games [9, 22]. This creates a legal grey area, leaving players unsure of their rights and protections. The recent approval of the Online Gaming Bill by the Union Cabinet aims to regulate betting apps and penalize illegal betting, which is a step in the right direction [11, 20]. However, the implementation and enforcement of these laws remain a challenge, and players often find themselves in a vulnerable position due to the lack of a clear, unified national policy. This ambiguity also makes it easier for illegal operators to thrive, further endangering players.

Scam Schemes Targeting Players: My Encounters and Warnings

Game Problems Assessment for Indian Players

As someone who's been around the block a few times, I've developed a keen eye for spotting scam schemes. Here are a few I've personally encountered or heard about:

* The Rigged Game: This is the most common one. You start winning small amounts, building confidence, and then when you place a significant bet, the game suddenly turns against you. I once played a game where I was on a good run, and then, inexplicably, every decision I made, even the statistically sound ones, resulted in a loss. It felt like the odds were being manipulated in real-time. This is precisely how scams like the 'Lotus' gaming app operated, ensuring small bettors won to lure them in, only to make them lose big later [18].

* The Fake Bonus Trap: Many platforms offer enticing welcome bonuses or deposit matches. I remember signing up for a new platform that promised a 200% bonus on my first deposit. Sounded great, right? But buried deep in the terms and conditions were impossible wagering requirements, making it almost impossible to withdraw any winnings derived from the bonus. It's a classic bait-and-switch, designed to get you to deposit more money without any real intention of letting you cash out the bonus.

* Phishing and Identity Theft: This isn't directly related to the game mechanics but is a significant risk in the online gambling space. I've received numerous suspicious emails and messages, masquerading as legitimate casino platforms, asking for my login details or banking information. These are phishing attempts, and falling for them can lead to your accounts being compromised and your money stolen. It's crucial to always verify the sender and never click on suspicious links.

* Withdrawal Scams: Even on seemingly legitimate platforms, I've heard of and experienced issues with withdrawals. Some platforms will introduce arbitrary delays, request excessive documentation, or even outright deny withdrawals on flimsy pretexts. A friend of mine had ₹50,000 stuck on a platform for weeks because they kept asking for new documents, even after he had provided everything initially. It's a tactic to frustrate players into giving up on their winnings.

Technical and Platform Issues: The Digital Headaches

Beyond the scams, the technical infrastructure of many online gaming platforms in India leaves a lot to be desired. As someone who spends a good chunk of my day online, I expect a smooth and seamless experience, but that's often not the case.

* Connectivity Woes: India's internet infrastructure, while improving, still has its patchy areas. I live in Mumbai, a metropolitan city, and even here, I experience frequent disconnections or slow speeds, especially during peak hours. Imagine playing a live casino game, or even a fast-paced game like Penalty Shoot-Out, and your internet suddenly drops. The game freezes, and when you reconnect, your bet is gone, or you've missed your turn. It's incredibly frustrating and leads to financial losses that are not the player's fault.

* App Crashes and Freezes: I've lost count of the times an app has simply crashed in the middle of a game. Sometimes, it's a minor inconvenience, and you can restart and pick up where you left off. But often, especially with real-money games, a crash means losing your stake. I've had instances where the app would freeze just as I was about to take a penalty shot, and upon restarting, the bet was deducted, but the outcome was never recorded. It feels like being robbed in broad daylight.

* Poor User Interface and Experience (UI/UX): Many Indian online casino apps feel clunky and unintuitive. Navigation can be a nightmare, with important features hidden behind multiple menus. The graphics are often subpar, and the overall user experience is far from what you'd expect from a modern gaming platform. This isn't just an aesthetic issue; a poor UI/UX can lead to accidental bets, misclicks, and a generally unpleasant gaming experience.

* Lack of Customer Support: When technical issues arise, getting timely and effective customer support is crucial. Unfortunately, many platforms in India fall short in this regard. I've spent hours trying to reach customer service, only to be met with automated responses or unhelpful agents. In a high-stakes environment like online gambling, quick resolution of technical problems is paramount, and the lack of it is a major pain point for players.

Payment and Withdrawal Problems: The Financial Gauntlet

As an Indian player, the financial transactions on these platforms are a constant source of anxiety. While the convenience of UPI and other digital payment methods is a boon, the issues surrounding deposits and withdrawals are significant.

* Delayed Withdrawals: This is perhaps the most common complaint among Indian players. I've personally experienced withdrawal requests taking days, sometimes even a week, to process. Imagine winning a substantial amount, say ₹10,000, and then having to wait endlessly to access your own money. It creates a sense of distrust and frustration. Some platforms intentionally delay withdrawals, hoping players will get impatient and re-bet their winnings.

* Opaque Withdrawal Policies: The terms and conditions for withdrawals are often vague and difficult to understand. Hidden fees, minimum withdrawal limits, and complex wagering requirements are common. I once tried to withdraw a small win, only to find out there was a minimum withdrawal limit of ₹500, which wasn't clearly stated when I deposited. It felt like a trap.

* KYC Hurdles: While KYC (Know Your Customer) is a necessary security measure, some platforms make it an unnecessarily cumbersome process. I've had to submit the same documents multiple times, only for them to be rejected for trivial reasons. This often happens when you try to make a significant withdrawal, leading to suspicions that it's a tactic to delay or deny payouts.

* Security Concerns with Payment Gateways: With the rise of online fraud, the security of payment gateways is a major concern. While most reputable platforms use secure encryption, there are always risks associated with sharing banking details online, especially with lesser-known or unregulated sites. The fear of financial data being compromised is a constant worry.

* Taxation on Winnings: The Indian government's decision to impose a 28% GST on online gaming and a 30% tax on winnings has added another layer of complexity [14]. While I understand the need for taxation, the implementation can be confusing for players. It's important for platforms to clearly communicate how these taxes are applied and deducted, but often, this information is not readily available, leading to unpleasant surprises when you see your winnings reduced.

Legal Considerations in India: Navigating the Murky Waters

The legal landscape of online gambling in India is, to put it mildly, a mess. It's a patchwork of state-specific laws, often outdated, that create more confusion than clarity. This ambiguity is a significant problem for players like me.

* State-Specific Laws: The Public Gambling Act of 1867, a relic from the British Raj, is still the central law governing gambling in India. However, states have the power to enact their own laws. This has led to a situation where online gambling is legal in some states (like Goa, Sikkim, Nagaland) but prohibited in others (like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka). As a player, it's incredibly difficult to keep track of what's legal and what's not, especially when you're traveling or when platforms operate across state lines.

* Skill vs. Chance Debate: A major point of contention is the distinction between 'games of skill' and 'games of chance'. Games like Rummy and Poker have been deemed games of skill by some courts, making them legal in certain contexts. However, many online casino games, including those like Penalty Shoot-Out, fall into a grey area, often being categorized as games of chance, which are generally prohibited. This legal ambiguity leaves players vulnerable to prosecution, even if they believe they are playing legally.

* Lack of Central Regulation: The absence of a clear, unified national regulatory framework is perhaps the biggest issue. This vacuum allows unregulated and often illegal platforms to flourish, preying on unsuspecting players. The recent move by the Union Cabinet to approve the Online Gaming Bill is a positive step towards creating a more regulated environment, but its effectiveness will depend on its implementation and enforcement [11, 20]. Until then, players are largely on their own.

* Enforcement Challenges: Even where laws exist, enforcement is a significant challenge. The sheer volume of illegal gambling sites and apps makes it difficult for authorities to crack down effectively. The government has blocked over 1,400 betting and gambling websites and apps between 2022 and February 2025, but new ones keep popping up [24, 25]. This cat-and-mouse game means that players are constantly exposed to risks from unregulated operators.

Player Protection Strategies: My Personal Shield

Given the myriad of problems, I've developed a few personal strategies to protect myself and my hard-earned money. It's not foolproof, but it helps mitigate the risks.

* Research, Research, Research: Before I deposit a single rupee on any new platform, I do my homework. I look for reviews, check their licensing information (if any), and try to find out if they have a history of player complaints. I also check if the game providers, like Evoplay for Penalty Shoot-Out, are reputable and have a good track record for fairness.

* Start Small: I never dive in with large deposits. I start with a small amount, say ₹500 or ₹1,000, and test the waters. I observe their payment processing, withdrawal times, and customer support responsiveness. If anything feels off, I cut my losses and move on.

* Set Limits: This is crucial for responsible gaming. I set daily, weekly, and monthly deposit limits for myself. Once I hit that limit, I stop, no matter how tempting it is to continue. I also set time limits for my gaming sessions. It's easy to lose track of time when you're engrossed in a game, but it's important to remember that it's just a game.

* Use Secure Payment Methods: I prefer using UPI or other direct bank transfer methods that offer an extra layer of security. I avoid platforms that only offer obscure payment options or ask for unusual personal information during transactions.

* Be Wary of Unrealistic Promises: If a bonus or a winning opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is. I've learned to be skeptical of platforms that promise guaranteed wins or astronomical returns. Legitimate platforms offer fair odds, not miracles.

* Keep Records: I maintain a record of all my deposits, withdrawals, and significant wins or losses. This helps me track my spending and identify any discrepancies. It also comes in handy if I need to dispute a transaction with the platform.

* Seek Help if Needed: I'm not ashamed to admit that there have been times when I felt the urge to chase losses. It's a dangerous path. I've made it a point to talk to trusted friends or family members if I feel my gaming habits are getting out of control. Recognizing the problem is the first step towards solving it.

Expanding on the Major Problems Faced by Indian Players

Let me delve a bit deeper into these problems, sharing more of my personal encounters and observations that paint a clearer picture of the challenges we face.

The Allure and Danger of the Addiction Trap

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement. I remember when my cousin, Rohan, first started playing online rummy. He was winning small amounts, and it felt like easy money. He'd show off his winnings, and we'd all be impressed. But soon, the small wins weren't enough. He started betting more, chasing bigger jackpots. I saw him glued to his phone, even during family gatherings, his eyes darting between the screen and his worried parents. He started borrowing money, first from friends, then from loan sharks. His grades plummeted, and he became withdrawn. It was heartbreaking to watch. The aggressive advertisements, often featuring celebrities, make it seem like a glamorous and easy way to get rich. They don't show the dark side – the sleepless nights, the mounting debts, the broken families. The lack of accessible and affordable rehabilitation centers in India is a huge concern. We need more than just helplines; we need proper support systems for those who fall prey to this addiction. It's a silent crisis, often hidden behind closed doors, but its impact is devastating.

The Ever-Evolving Scammer's Playground

The scammers are getting smarter, and it's terrifying. Beyond the rigged games and fake bonuses, I've seen new tactics emerge. One common one is the 'digital arrest' scam, where players who are already in debt from online gaming are targeted. They receive calls or messages from individuals posing as law enforcement, threatening them with arrest for illegal gambling activities unless they pay a hefty 'fine'. A friend of mine almost fell for this, panicking when he was told he'd be arrested if he didn't transfer ₹50,000 immediately. Luckily, he called me first. These scammers exploit the fear and desperation of vulnerable players. Another insidious scam involves fake investment schemes disguised as gaming opportunities. You're promised astronomical returns if you invest in a 'new gaming venture', but it's just a pyramid scheme designed to steal your money. The Mahadev Betting App case was a wake-up call, but it's just the tip of the iceberg. These illegal operations are often run from abroad, making it incredibly difficult for Indian authorities to track and prosecute them. It's a constant cat-and-mouse game, and unfortunately, the players are often the mice.

The Frustration of Technical Glitches and Platform Instability

I once had a particularly frustrating experience with a popular sports betting app during a crucial IPL match. I had placed a significant bet on my favorite team, and they were winning. In the last over, as the tension was palpable, the app suddenly froze. I tried everything – restarting the app, checking my internet connection – but nothing worked. By the time I managed to log back in, the match was over, and my team had lost. My bet was gone, and there was no record of the app crashing. When I contacted customer support, they simply said there was no issue on their end. It felt like a deliberate act, a way to avoid paying out. These aren't isolated incidents. Many platforms, especially the smaller, less reputable ones, are built on shaky technical foundations. They can't handle the traffic, leading to frequent crashes, slow response times, and data loss. It's not just about losing money; it's about the sheer frustration and feeling of helplessness when technology fails you in a high-stakes environment.

The Financial Gauntlet of Payment and Withdrawal Woes

The payment process can be a real headache. I've often found myself jumping through hoops just to deposit money. Some platforms have multiple payment gateways, and it's a lottery whether your transaction will go through smoothly. I once tried to deposit ₹1,000 using my UPI app, and the transaction failed three times before it finally went through. The worst part is when the money is debited from your bank account but doesn't reflect in your gaming wallet. Then begins the tedious process of contacting customer support, providing screenshots, and waiting for days for the issue to be resolved. Withdrawals are even worse. The promise of instant withdrawals is often a myth. I've waited for over a week for a ₹20,000 withdrawal to clear, constantly checking my bank balance and feeling anxious. The opaque terms and conditions around bonuses and wagering requirements are also a major trap. You think you've won big, but then you realize you need to wager your bonus amount 30 times over before you can withdraw any winnings. It's a deceptive practice that leaves many players feeling cheated. And with the new GST and income tax rules, it's even more confusing. Many platforms don't clearly explain how these taxes are applied, leading to nasty surprises when your winnings are significantly reduced.

Navigating the Murky Waters of Legal Considerations

The legal ambiguity is perhaps the most unsettling aspect of online gambling in India. It's like walking through a minefield, never knowing when you might step on something illegal. The distinction between 'games of skill' and 'games of chance' is a legal grey area that's constantly being debated. For a common player like me, it's impossible to keep up. One day, a game might be considered legal in my state, and the next, it might be banned. This uncertainty makes it difficult to trust any platform fully. The lack of a central regulatory body means there's no single authority to turn to when disputes arise. If a platform refuses to pay out, or if you suspect foul play, your options are limited. The recent Online Gaming Bill is a ray of hope, but until it's fully implemented and enforced across all states, we'll continue to operate in this legal limbo, vulnerable to the whims of individual state laws and unscrupulous operators.

My Personal Shield: Expanding on Player Protection Strategies

Given these challenges, I've refined my approach to online gaming. It's not just about playing smart; it's about protecting myself from the inherent risks of this unregulated environment.

* Deep Dive into Research: My research goes beyond just checking reviews. I look for forums and communities where players discuss their experiences. I pay attention to red flags like consistent complaints about delayed withdrawals, unresponsive customer support, or sudden changes in game mechanics. I also cross-reference information from multiple sources to ensure its authenticity. If a platform doesn't have a clear licensing and regulatory body mentioned, I steer clear. I've learned that a few hours of research can save me thousands of rupees and a lot of heartache.

* The 'Small Bet, Big Observation' Rule: My strategy of starting small isn't just about minimizing financial risk; it's about observing the platform's behavior. I pay close attention to how quickly deposits are processed, the transparency of their bonus terms, and the efficiency of their customer support, even for small queries. If I encounter any friction or red flags during these initial interactions, I don't hesitate to withdraw my small deposit and move on. It's a litmus test for the platform's reliability.

* Strict Self-Imposed Limits: This is non-negotiable for me. I use the self-exclusion tools offered by platforms, if available, to set strict deposit and loss limits. If a platform doesn't offer these tools, I manually track my spending and losses. I also use external apps to monitor my screen time and remind me to take breaks. It's about maintaining control and preventing impulsive decisions, especially after a big win or a series of losses. I've seen too many friends fall into the trap of chasing losses, and it's a downward spiral.

* Prioritizing Secure and Familiar Payment Methods: I stick to well-known Indian payment methods like UPI and net banking. I avoid using credit cards directly on gaming sites if possible, preferring to use digital wallets that offer an extra layer of security. I also enable two-factor authentication wherever available to protect my accounts from unauthorized access. The security of my financial data is paramount.

* Skepticism is My Best Friend: I treat every bonus offer, every promotional email, and every 'guaranteed win' claim with extreme skepticism. I read the fine print, no matter how tedious it is. I've learned that if something sounds too good to be true, it almost always is. This mindset has saved me from countless traps and deceptive schemes.

* Meticulous Record Keeping: I maintain a detailed spreadsheet of all my gaming activities – deposits, withdrawals, wins, losses, and even customer support interactions. This record serves as my personal audit trail. If there's a dispute, I have all the evidence I need. It also helps me analyze my gaming patterns and identify if I'm spending more than I intended.

* Building a Support Network: I've fostered open communication with my family and a few trusted friends about my gaming habits. They act as my accountability partners. If they notice any concerning behavior, they don't hesitate to call me out. And if I feel overwhelmed, I know I can reach out to them for support. It's important to break the stigma around gambling addiction and seek help when needed.

These strategies have helped me navigate the complex and often perilous world of online gambling in India. While I enjoy the thrill of games like Penalty Shoot-Out, I'm always aware of the risks and take proactive steps to protect myself. It's a journey of continuous learning and adaptation in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Conclusion: A Call for a Safer Gaming Environment

My journey through the world of online casino games in India, including my time with games like Evoplay's Penalty Shoot-Out, has been a rollercoaster of emotions. The thrill of the game is undeniable, but the underlying problems – addiction, scams, technical glitches, payment woes, and legal ambiguities – cast a long shadow. As a player, I yearn for a safer, more transparent, and better-regulated online gaming environment.

The recent legislative efforts by the Indian government are a glimmer of hope. However, true change will require a multi-pronged approach:

* Unified National Regulation: A clear, comprehensive national law governing online gambling is desperately needed. This would bring consistency, protect players, and allow legitimate operators to thrive while cracking down on illegal ones.

* Enhanced Player Protection Mechanisms: Platforms need to implement stronger responsible gaming tools, including more prominent self-exclusion options, clear deposit/loss limits, and readily accessible support for problem gamblers.

* Vigilant Enforcement: Authorities must continue their efforts to identify and shut down illegal gambling operations and prosecute those involved in scams. International cooperation will be crucial, given the cross-border nature of many of these illicit activities.

* Financial Transparency: Platforms must be more transparent about their payment and withdrawal policies, including all fees and taxes. The process should be streamlined and efficient, ensuring players can access their winnings without undue delays or hurdles.

* Public Awareness Campaigns: There's a dire need for widespread public awareness campaigns, especially in rural areas, about the risks associated with online gambling, the signs of addiction, and how to identify and avoid scams.

As Rajesh Kumar, a passionate gamer from Mumbai, I believe that online gaming has immense potential for entertainment and even economic growth. But this potential can only be realized if the industry addresses these critical issues head-on. Until then, I'll continue to play with caution, always keeping my personal shield up, and hoping for a future where every Indian player can enjoy the game without fear of falling victim to its darker side.

References:

[4] NCPG. (n.d.). National Council on Problem Gambling: Home. Retrieved from https://www.ncpgambling.org/

[5] DW. (2025, March 27). India: Addicted to online betting and fantasy gaming. Retrieved from https://www.dw.com/en/india-addicted-to-online-betting-and-fantasy-gaming/a-72057412

[6] Al Jazeera. (2023, July 20). In India, fantasy gaming is causing addiction and financial ruin. Retrieved from https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2023/7/20/in-india-fantasy-gaming-is-causing-addiction-and-financial-ruin

[7] The Secretariat. (2024, August 20). Navigating India's Online Gambling Landscape. Retrieved from https://thesecretariat.in/article/rolling-the-dice-india-s-obsession-with-online-gambling-and-its-problems

[8] PMC. (2024, October 17). Online gambling: Mental health implications and how to curb the.... Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PMC11633255/

[9] Wikipedia. (n.d.). Gambling in India. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gambling_in_India

[10] The Lancet. (2023, August 24). Gambling in India: the need for a comprehensive public health.... Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(23)00269-9/abstract

[11] NDTV. (2025, August 19). Cabinet Clears Bill To Make Online Betting Punishable. Retrieved from https://www.ndtv.com/video/cabinet-clears-bill-to-make-online-betting-punishable-982715

[12] Tfipost.com. (2024, December 2). Score Big with Penalty Shoot Out on 1Win. Retrieved from https://tfipost.com/2024/12/penalty-shoot-out-1win-india/

[13] India1win.com. (n.d.). 1win Penalty ShootOut: Play Online for Real Money. Retrieved from https://india1win.com/penalty/

[14] MSN. (2025, August 19). Online Gaming Bill gets cabinet nod, sets penalties for gambling.... Retrieved from https://www.msn.com/en-in/money/topstories/online-gaming-bill-gets-cabinet-nod-sets-penalties-for-gambling-through-betting-apps/ar-AA1KNlpD?ocid=finance-verthp-feeds

[15] 360info. (2024, August 5). Gambling with an acute mental health problem. Retrieved from https://360info.org/gambling-with-an-acute-mental-health-problem/

[16] Wikipedia. (n.d.). Mahadev Betting App Case. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahadev_Betting_App_Case

[17] NDTV. (2025, August 13). Rs 8.3 Lakh Crore Market: Inside India's Illegal Online Betting Apps. Retrieved from https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/probe-agency-grills-suresh-raina-in-crackdown-on-illegal-online-betting-apps-9075608

[18] Business Standard. (2024, October 11). Online gaming scams: Small bets win, big bets lose - how they work. Retrieved from https://www.business-standard.com/finance/personal-finance/online-gaming-scams-small-bets-win-big-bets-lose-how-they-work-124101100667_1.html

[19] Kacheridiaries.com. (2025, August 10). Mahadev Betting App Scam: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.kacheridiaries.com/r-askreddify/post/mahadev-betting-app-scam-what-you-need-to-know-cxURj696XyoOXyu

[20] Medial. (2025, August 19). Cabinet approves Online Gaming Bill making online betting.... Retrieved from https://medial.app/news/cabinet-approves-online-gaming-bill-making-online-betting-punishable-sources-the-economic-times-d7e8c5c198fc3

[21] Economic Times. (2024, August 18). ED investigates Indian links of foreign gambling apps, suspects over.... Retrieved from https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/ed-investigates-indian-links-of-foreign-gambling-apps-suspects-over-rs-1-lakh-cr-bets/articleshow/112611849.cms

[22] Legalkart. (2025, July 2). Online Gambling Laws and Punishment in India. Retrieved from https://www.legalkart.com/legal-blog/online-gambling-laws-and-punishment-in-india

[23] Times of India. (2025, April 12). Private firm employee loses 40L to online betting scam. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/private-firm-employee-loses-40l-to-online-betting-scam/articleshow/120216247.cms

[24] India Today. (2025, August 19). Online Gaming Bill regulating betting apps, penalising gambling.... Retrieved from https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/online-gaming-bill-regulating-betting-apps-penalising-gambling-gets-cabinet-approval-sources-2773513-2025-08-19

[25] Focusgn.com. (2025, July 25). India blocked over 1,500 illegal gambling sites between 2022 and.... Retrieved from https://focusgn.com/asia-pacific/india-blocks-over-1500-illegal-gambling-sites-between-2022-and-june-2025)