Influencers Under Investigation: The Investigation into the Promotion of Illegal Betting Apps
A major investigation has begun in India, where the financial department (ED) is examining the activities of celebrities who promoted mobile apps disguised as gaming platforms but are actually illegal betting operators. The authorities have focused on both well-known actors and television hosts, as well as popular influencers.
Who is Under Investigation?
Among the public figures at the center of the investigation are actors, television hosts, and musicians. The list includes:
- Sanjeev Kumar – actor
- Tamannaah Bhatia – actress
- Rakul Preet Singh – actress
- Hema Malini – actress
- Maniesh Paul – TV host, actor
- Badshah – rapper
- Jackie Shroff – actor
- Sunny Leone – actress
- Nushrratt Bharuccha – actress
- Tiger Shroff – actor
- Neha Sharma – actress
- Hansika Motwani – actress
These celebrities promoted mobile apps that promised users “social games” but were in fact unlicensed gambling platforms. The department has already begun an investigation to determine the extent of the celebrities’ knowledge about the illegal nature of the services they were promoting.
How Did the Investigation Unfold?
The financial department suspects that the celebrities violated financial laws by facilitating the spread of illegal betting. The investigation is focused on financial transactions related to these promotional agreements, as well as examining transactions and contracts. The department is also looking into the possibility of money laundering through these platforms, which requires further legal assessments and actions.
Problems with the Legitimacy of the Advertised Apps
Many users, upon seeing advertisements from well-known figures, may mistakenly believe these platforms are legal. This creates a false sense of security for players, leading to significant financial losses. Social media has become the primary channel for advertising these apps, and many young people, unaware of the risks, have invested money in these services.
Regulatory Issues and Social Impact
Cybersecurity and legal experts express concern about the impact of online advertising on young people. As one expert noted, such advertising campaigns can be misleading and undermine trust in the regulatory system designed to protect users from potential financial risks.
Impact on Users’ Financial Security
The direct impact of illegal apps is felt not only by Indian users but also on an international scale. Allegations of violating the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) could lead to severe consequences, including fines and criminal sanctions for all involved parties.
Investigation Outlook and Possible Consequences
Representatives from the ED have stated that investigative actions will continue, and additional measures to restrict advertising of such apps may be introduced in the future. New regulations are already being considered to prevent the promotion of illegal services through public figures.
Responsibility of Influencers and Celebrities
Influencers promoting such platforms are also subject to investigation. It is possible that some were unaware of the risks associated with promoting illegal apps. However, the investigation will determine whether they were aware of the legal implications and potential consequences of their actions.
Examples of Celebrities Involved in the Scandal
Among the well-known figures who have also become the subject of the investigation are:
- Kathira Harsha Sai – influencer accused of promoting the Parimatch and Lotus 365 platforms, resulting in losses totaling ₹13,67,300.
- Bayya Sandeep (Sunny Yadav) – accused of spreading advertisements that led to financial losses among youth.
- Imran Khan, Vishnu Priya, Shyamala, Tasty Teja – influential figures who promoted illegal betting platforms, creating huge financial flows.
Conclusion
This investigation is of significant importance not only for the online gaming industry but also for the regulation of advertising campaigns in general. The investigation stages show how important it is for stars and influencers to be careful about the products they promote and to understand their legal and financial consequences for users.