Bank Account Freeze Due to Gaming App Money: Is Playing Games a Crime?
In recent times, many individuals in India have faced a disturbing situation — their bank accounts have been frozen or placed on lien/hold due to money received from gaming apps. While online gaming is a fast-growing industry and a source of entertainment or income for many, its financial implications can lead to legal troubles if not handled carefully. This blog explains why bank accounts get frozen due to gaming app transactions, whether playing games is a crime, and how to stay safe legally and financially.
Is Playing Online Games a Crime?
Playing online games is not a crime in itself. Many gaming apps are legal and registered under Indian law. However, certain platforms that promote betting, gambling, or offer financial rewards in violation of the law can fall under illegal activities. If your earnings from such apps are suspected to be proceeds of fraud, money laundering, or illegal gaming, the police or cyber cell may initiate action.
Why Do Bank Accounts Get Frozen?
A bank account can be frozen, held, or lien marked by order of cybercrime authorities or local police under suspicion of involvement in:
Receiving funds from online fraud or illegal gaming.
Participating in platforms that promote betting/gambling (which is illegal in most Indian states).
A complaint filed against a gaming app or the person who received the game winnings.
If your account has received money from someone involved in illegal gaming/fraud, even unknowingly, your account may be investigated or frozen temporarily.
How Does Account Lien or Hold Happen?
https://youtu.be/Vvn5qJH7rww?si=ObYCIQcuIPKDlJFH
Complaint Lodged: A victim files a complaint about being cheated via a gaming app or fraudulent transaction.
Investigation Begins: The cyber cell or police trace UPI transactions and linked bank accounts.
Letter Sent to Bank: Authorities send a letter under CrPC Section 91 or IPC Section 420/66D IT Act to place a lien or freeze your account.
Bank Action: Bank immediately puts a hold or lien on your account and informs you via SMS or email.
What to Do If Your Account Is Frozen?
Get Acknowledgement: Visit the nearest police station or cyber cell with ID proof and get a copy of the complaint or FIR number.
Hire a Cyber Crime Advocate: Engage a lawyer experienced in handling bank account holds due to cyber complaints.
Draft a Proper Representation: File a written reply to the investigating officer (IO) along with supporting documents.
Seek NOC or Court Order: Your advocate can help you get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or move the appropriate court to get the hold lifted.
Safety Tips to Avoid Account Freeze
Never accept or transfer money on behalf of unknown persons.
Avoid games that involve gambling, high returns, or suspicious payment modes.
Use accounts linked with your PAN and Aadhaar; avoid anonymous wallets.
Regularly check transaction history and report any suspicious activity.
Avoid lending your bank account or UPI ID to gaming app users.
Trending Cyber Crimes Linked with Gaming Apps
Fake gaming apps promising "earn while you play"
Ponzi-style gaming reward systems
Apps involved in international gambling rings
Phishing through gaming platforms
These often lead to accounts being linked to broader criminal investigations.
Types of Cyber Crime That Can Affect Your Account
UPI fraud and identity theft
Money laundering through games
Fake loan apps disguised as gaming apps
Investment scams via gamified platforms
Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as advertisement, solicitation, or substitute for legal advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified legal expert for case-specific guidance.
Comments
Post a Comment