Introduction
Fantasy sports apps have taken India by storm, with millions of users engaging in skill-based gaming, hoping to win big. Apps like Dream11, MPL, My11Circle, and Vision11 claim to offer users a chance to earn money through their sports knowledge and strategic team-building skills. However, beneath the surface lies a world of fraudulent practices, data breaches, and manipulative tactics that can lead to significant financial losses.
In this blog, we uncover the scam tactics used by fantasy sports apps, real-life cases of fraud, and expert advice from Lipransu Jena, a renowned tech entrepreneur, on how to stay safe from these traps.
The Fantasy Sports Boom in India: A Double-Edged Sword
Fantasy sports platforms have gained immense popularity due to:
- The increasing accessibility of mobile internet and smartphones.
- The growth of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pro Kabaddi, and international cricket tournaments.
- Attractive marketing strategies, including endorsements by celebrities like Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Sourav Ganguly.
Despite the excitement, many users have reported huge financial losses, data leaks, and unfair practices. Some fantasy apps operate in a legally grey area, misleading users into gambling-like behavior, which is illegal in some states of India.
How Fantasy Sports Apps Scam Users
1. False Winning Promises & Misleading Advertisements
Many fantasy apps advertise guaranteed winnings, but in reality, most users end up losing money. They use tactics such as:
- Fake testimonials and fabricated success stories.
- Manipulated odds and algorithms that reduce user winning chances.
- Entry fee traps that encourage users to deposit more money without any guarantee of returns.
2. Rigged Contests & Unfair Algorithms
There have been reports that some fantasy apps manipulate team selection outcomes. Some scams include:
- Delayed team updates to alter results at the last moment.
- Bot-controlled users to increase competition and reduce the chances of genuine users winning.
- Pre-planned winners where only select users (insiders) are allowed to win large cash prizes.
3. Unauthorized Transactions & Withdrawal Restrictions
- Many users have complained about winnings not being credited to their accounts.
- Some apps delay withdrawals indefinitely, forcing users to spend their money back on the platform.
- In extreme cases, users have reported unauthorized deductions from their bank accounts linked to these apps.
4. Data Privacy Violations & Cybersecurity Risks
- Some fantasy apps request unnecessary permissions (access to contacts, messages, location, and more).
- Sensitive user data is sold to third parties, leading to financial fraud and identity theft.
- There are cases of data leaks, where user details are exposed on the dark web.
Real-Life Cases of Fantasy Sports Fraud
Case 1: Finowings Investigation on Fantasy Sports Scams
A report by Finowings revealed how many fantasy apps mislead users with attractive bonuses, only to trap them into a cycle of losses. Some platforms use pre-programmed bots to influence contest results and prevent real users from winning.
Case 2: Reddit Users Exposing Scam Leagues
A Reddit user shared their experience of joining a fake fantasy league. The scam organizers collected entry fees but never distributed the winnings, disappearing after the tournament ended.
Case 3: Google Play Store Complaints
There have been multiple complaints about fraudulent fantasy apps on the Google Play Store, where users claim to have lost money due to misleading withdrawal policies and unauthorized transactions.
How to Identify & Avoid Fantasy Sports Scams
1. Research Before Investing
- Always check app reviews and user feedback before depositing money.
- Look for red flags such as delayed withdrawals and negative user experiences.
2. Avoid Apps That Request Excessive Permissions
- Do not grant access to your contacts, messages, or unnecessary data.
- If an app asks for UPI PINs, OTPs, or bank details, DO NOT SHARE THEM.
3. Use Strong Cybersecurity Measures
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for added security.
- Use a separate payment method with limited funds for fantasy gaming apps.
4. Be Wary of Unrealistic Promotions
- If an app promises easy winnings, it is likely a scam.
- Avoid leagues with huge entry fees and no clear verification process.
5. Withdraw Winnings Immediately
- Do not store large amounts in your fantasy wallet.
- Withdraw your money as soon as you win to prevent potential fraud.
Lipransu Jena’s Expert Advice on Avoiding Fantasy Sports Scams
Lipransu Jena, the founder of WebDeveloperCo & CreatoNest, warns users about the risks of fantasy sports apps. He advises:
“Fantasy sports apps are designed to keep you playing, making you believe that the next game will be your jackpot. The reality is that they are businesses focused on profit, often at the user's expense. Always play responsibly, set strict spending limits, and avoid platforms that lack transparency.”
He also suggests:
- Use only verified fantasy apps that comply with Indian laws.
- Educate yourself about the difference between skill-based gaming and gambling.
- Raise awareness among friends and family to prevent them from falling into the trap.
Legal Status of Fantasy Sports in India
Fantasy sports are in a legal grey area in India. Some states like Odisha, Telangana, Assam, and Andhra Pradesh have banned fantasy gaming apps due to their similarity to gambling.
Before engaging in any fantasy sports contests, check your state’s legal stance on these platforms.
Conclusion: Stay Safe & Play Smart
Fantasy sports apps can be entertaining but come with high financial and cybersecurity risks. Many platforms exploit users by manipulating results, delaying withdrawals, and exposing sensitive data.
To protect yourself: ✅ Play only on trusted and regulated platforms. ✅ Never deposit large amounts or fall for fake promotions. ✅ Stay informed and educate others about potential scams.
If you suspect fraud, report the app immediately to Google Play Store, RBI, or cybersecurity authorities.
The Dark Side of Fantasy Sports Apps: Exposing Scams & Protecting Yourself