Ministry of Home Affairs Issues Warning about Online Gaming Fraud
In response to the increasing incidents of fraud through gaming apps, the cyber wing of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a warning urging people to exercise caution when engaging in online gaming. The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (14C), operating under the MHA’s Cyber Wing, has issued a cautionary message emphasizing the importance of playing smart and staying secure while gaming online.
Key Tips to Stay Safe while Gaming Online
The 14C wing has provided some key tips to help people stay safe while gaming online. These tips include downloading online apps only from authentic sources like Google Play Store, Apple Store, and Official Websites. The 14C also advises players to always check the game app publishers’ information to ensure website legitimacy.
Furthermore, the cyber security wing warns against falling into the trap of game in-app purchases and lucrative subscription offers. It is recommended to exercise caution while sharing personal information in chats or forums, as scammers can use social media tactics to manipulate players. Players are also advised to allow only relevant and necessary permissions while downloading apps.
I4C Suggests Dialing Cybercrime Helpline Number in Case of Online Fraud
In case of online fraud, the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre suggests dialing 1930, the cybercrime helpline number. It is important for victims of online fraud to report the incident and seek assistance from the appropriate authorities.
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology Blocks Gambling and Betting Apps
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has blocked a total of 581 apps till December 15 last year. Out of these, there were 174 betting and gambling apps and 87 loan lending apps. These apps were blocked on the recommendations of the MHA under section 69A of the IT Act, 2000. Popular gaming applications like PUBG and Garena Free Fire were among the blocked apps.
Offshore Gaming Companies Made Registration Mandatory in India
In July last year, the Centre amended the IGST Act, making it mandatory for all offshore gaming companies to be registered in India. The amendment also gave the Centre the power to block websites that are not registered and are violating laws. This move aimed to regulate the activities of offshore gaming companies and prevent illegal activities such as proxy bank accounts and remittance through hawala, crypto, and other illegal routes.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah Reviews the Functioning of I4C
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reviewed the functioning of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) and announced the blocking of more than 500 internet-based applications based on the recommendations of I4C. Shah has emphasized the government’s initiatives for cybersecurity and the increasing number of registered cybercrime complaints. The Center’s analytical report on the modus operandi of the top 50 cyberattacks in the country has also been prepared.
Analyst comment
Positive news:
– Ministry of Home Affairs Issues Warning about Online Gaming Fraud
– Key Tips to Stay Safe while Gaming Online
– I4C Suggests Dialing Cybercrime Helpline Number in Case of Online Fraud
– Offshore Gaming Companies Made Registration Mandatory in India
– Union Home Minister Amit Shah Reviews the Functioning of I4C
Neutral news:
– Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology Blocks Gambling and Betting Apps
As an analyst, the market is expected to respond positively to the government’s efforts in addressing online gaming fraud and promoting cybersecurity. The warning and tips from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the actions taken by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre will likely increase awareness and caution among online gamers. The mandatory registration of offshore gaming companies and the blocking of illegal apps will help regulate the industry and prevent illegal activities. Overall, this news is expected to have a positive impact on the market.
