New Delhi: In a significant move to curb online gambling scams, the Kerala police has issued notices to tech giants Google and Meta to remove fake lottery apps and advertisements promoting them.
According to a press release from the State Police Media Centre (SPMC), the police have identified over 60 fake lottery apps, 25 fraudulent Facebook profiles, and 20 websites involved in these scams. These platforms have been used to deceive unsuspecting individuals into believing they can purchase state-run lotteries online.
The scammers have been circulating fake ads for ‘Kerala Megamillion Lottery’ and ‘Kerala Summer Season Dhamaka’ on social media platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram. These ads lure victims with promises of substantial cash prizes.
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Once a victim falls for the scam, they are directed to send money to a designated account. After the payment is made, the scammers provide fake lottery ticket images and claim that the ticket has won a prize. To receive the prize, the victim is then asked to pay additional amounts for taxes and other fees.
The police have warned the public to be vigilant against such scams and urged them to report any suspicious activity to the helpline number 1930. The authorities are committed to taking stringent legal action against those involved in these fraudulent activities.
