1xBet Advertises on Uber Taxis in India Despite Ban
Illegal 1xBet Advertising in Mumbai and Delhi
During the peak season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), more than 2,000 taxis in Mumbai and Delhi displayed advertisements for the betting company 1xBet. However, as early as 2023, Indian authorities declared its operations illegal.
The vehicles displaying the advertisements belong to Everest Fleet, a company that received $30 million in investments from Uber, including $20 million in 2023. Since these cars are booked and paid for through the Uber app, the advertising activity may be perceived as part of the brand.
Government and Public Response
The violation was identified by the local NGO Acharya Chanakya Educational Trust. The organization sent a letter to Uber’s India office demanding action against the illegal advertising.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of India (MeitY) had previously blocked 581 apps, including 174 related to gambling, such as Parimatch, Fairplay, and 1xBet. At the same time, the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) is actively combating offshore gaming platforms by blocking websites and restricting financial transactions.
Legal Loopholes and Accountability
1xBet is registered outside India, making it difficult to control its activities. In the absence of direct legal regulations, authorities resort to blocking websites, restricting financial transfers, and pressuring digital platforms.
The issue of responsibility for the advertisements remains unclear:
- Everest Fleet, as the vehicle owner, may face legal consequences.
- Uber, as a client of Everest Fleet, could potentially be involved in the investigation.
- It remains unclear who approved the advertisement placement: Everest Fleet, Uber, or an external advertising agency.
Why Do Illegal Bookmakers Continue to Operate?
Despite the official ban in India, 1xBet continues to find ways to promote itself:
- Sponsorship of sporting events, including the Mysore Derby.
- Advertising through celebrities.
- Using mirror websites and mobile apps distributed via Telegram, WhatsApp, and Discord.
Another issue is the inconsistency of laws across different states. While Andhra Pradesh has completely banned gambling, other regions allow certain types of activities, creating a “gray area” for illegal platforms.
Will Action Be Taken?
There have been no official comments from Uber or Everest Fleet so far. However, increasing attention to the issue, regulatory actions, and stricter controls on offshore bookmakers may lead to new restrictions and fines for the involved companies.