Fraudsters exploit the excitement of gaming to trick users into revealing sensitive information or installing malicious apps. Scammers offer “bonus coins,” “free skins,” or “tournament rewards” that lead to phishing pages. Some fake apps even ask for contact permissions, access to storage, or banking details under the pretext of reward redemption. Once installed, they can track user data or initiate unauthorised UPI transactions.

• Fake “real money” gaming apps promising assured returns.
• Phishing links shared in gaming communities or Telegram groups.
• Scams asking users to pay entry fees for non-existent tournaments.
• Social engineering scams where attackers befriend gamers to steal login data.
• Malware disguised as “mod” versions of popular games.

• ⚠️ Game apps asking for unnecessary permissions like Contacts or Files.
• 💡 Promises of assured rewards or unlimited credits after paying small fees.
• ✅ Redirects to suspicious payment gateways during registration.
• 📉 Frequent pop-ups asking for OTP verification or login credentials.
• 🎯 Unverified developers listed in app store descriptions.

Do’s

• Download games only from official app stores like Google Play or Apple App Store.
• Enable parental control for children’s gaming accounts.
• Read user reviews carefully to identify fake apps or poor security ratings.
• Limit in-app purchases and use prepaid wallets for transactions.

Don’ts

• Don’t install APKs shared on social media or unknown sources.
• Don’t click on pop-ups or links offering “free coins” or “pro memberships.”
• Don’t share personal or financial information with strangers while gaming.
• Don’t reuse passwords across multiple gaming platforms.

Fake gaming apps are increasingly being used to steal banking data or crypto wallet access. Fraudsters also exploit “refer and earn” schemes to collect contact information. These databases are later sold on the dark web. For gamers linking UPI or debit cards with gaming wallets, a single malware infection can compromise all stored credentials.

• Report gaming frauds immediately on cybercrime dot gov dot in or call 1930.
• Inform the app store’s customer support to get the fraudulent app delisted.
• Uninstall the app and reset all passwords linked to your wallet or bank accounts.
• Use anti-malware software to scan your device after a suspicious gaming incident.

• 💡 Enable time and spending limits on child accounts.
• ✅ Discuss online safety and the risks of chatting with strangers.
• 📉 Teach children never to share screenshots of payment pages or OTPs.
• 🎯 Install family protection tools to monitor app downloads and permissions.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and I4C have issued repeated warnings about fake gaming apps and unlicensed real-money platforms. Legal frameworks now require gaming companies to maintain strict KYC and user verification. Players must prioritise safety over greed and ensure they play on authorised platforms only.

Gaming should remain a source of fun — not financial loss. Avoid installing unknown apps, ignore unrealistic promises, and secure your devices against malware. Responsible gaming and financial discipline go hand-in-hand. Continue learning from expert insights at Indian-Share-Tips.com, which is a SEBI Registered Advisory Services.