Hyderabad: Cybercrime Police Bust Online Betting Scam, Arrest 4 Influencers

The Cyberabad Police have busted an online betting scam run through Telegram and illegal websites. Four social media influencers were arrested for promoting the scam and helping the gang cheat people.

The arrested individuals are Chinnamsetti Naga Rakesh, Pottavathini Deepak, Guguloth Sri Ram Naik, and Hemanth Kumar.

According to the police, the gang used fake Telegram channels to promise users “fixed match” tips and “insider information.” They lured people—mostly young users—through ads and influencer promotions. Once interested, users were asked to join private Telegram groups and download special betting apps or register through links and codes shared by influencers.

Victims deposited money through UPI, IMPS, or NEFT into fake bank accounts. These accounts were opened using forged Aadhaar and PAN details to bypass ID checks. Some of the money was even converted into cryptocurrency to avoid tracking.

The fraud came to light after a man from Miyapur lost ₹50 lakh, and his friend lost ₹60 lakh in the scam. The police said the gang made some small payouts to gain trust, but blocked large withdrawals.

Influencers promoting the scam earned 1–3% commission on every bet and were also paid monthly. Some influencers made between ₹25 lakh and ₹80 lakh.

The gang ran the scam from 2019 to 2025, targeting Telugu-speaking people and expanding to other states.

Cyberabad Police have urged people to stay alert and report cybercrimes by calling 1930.

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