Karnataka police seek support from hosting providers to combat illegal betting platforms
The initiative follows the blocking of 8,750 betting websites and apps.
India.- The Karnataka State Cyber Command says it has contacted 127 web-hosting providers to request their cooperation in identifying and blocking gambling-related websites. The move comes after authorities announced the blocking of 8,750 betting websites and applications. Authorities say they want hosting providers to help prevent illegal operators from quickly re-establishing their services through new domains and hosting arrangements.
M Chandrashekar, additional director general of Police (ADGP) of the Cyber Command, said the initiative forms part of a three-phase strategy. The first phase focused on blocking identified URLs and domains, while the second involves direct engagement with hosting providers, which are considered intermediaries under Indian law.
Authorities are asking hosting companies to strengthen oversight and avoid providing services to illegal gambling and betting platforms. According to Cyber Command representatives, a key challenge is that many gambling websites are hosted outside India. While intermediaries generally benefit from legal protections under so-called “safe harbour” provisions, authorities have warned that legal action could follow if they fail to cooperate having being notified about illegal services.
The third phase of the operation will focus on tracing the proceeds generated by online gambling and identifying the individuals and organisations behind the platforms.
