Police Warn Against Online Betting as World Cup Begins, 20,000 Sites Blocked So Far

Kathmandu. Nepal Police have urged the public to refrain from participating in online betting and gambling activities as the FIFA World Cup gets underway, warning that sports events often trigger a surge in illegal wagering schemes.

In a public notice, the police said operators of online betting platforms frequently use social media and digital advertisements to lure people with promises of quick and easy profits. Such schemes often encourage users to invest small amounts initially, creating the impression of earnings before ultimately defrauding them of larger sums.

According to police, many individuals become victims of financial scams after being enticed by advertisements claiming they can earn substantial income from home with minimal investment.

Authorities cautioned that the consequences of online betting extend beyond financial losses, affecting family relationships, social standing and mental well-being.

Police also reminded the public that online gambling and betting are illegal under Nepali law. Section 125 of the National Penal Code, 2017 prohibits gambling and betting activities.

Police have also appealed to citizens not to use the World Cup as an opportunity for illegal financial gain. It has also urged the public to report any individuals or groups involved in operating online betting platforms or recruiting others into such activities.

The government led by Prime Minister Balen Shah had announced a plan to block online betting platforms as part of its 100-day agenda following the Gen-Z movement-backed election. The blocking process began on March 27, with authorities directing service providers to restrict access to such websites.

However, enforcement remains challenging as operators frequently launch new domains after existing ones are blocked. The continued use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) has also made it difficult to completely restrict access to online gambling platforms.

According to Surya Prasad Lamichhane, deputy director at the Administration and Licensing Directorate of the Nepal Telecommunications Authority, more than 20,000 online gambling and betting platforms have been blocked so far.

पछिल्लो अध्यावधिक: जेठ ३१, २०८३ १३:३०

टिप्पणीहरू