Crackdown on illegal online gaming: 357 websites blocked ahead of IPL season

In a significant move, the GST intelligence officers have blocked 357 websites of illegal offshore online gaming firms and attached approximately 2,400 bank accounts. This crackdown comes ahead of the IPL season, which begins tonight, and is aimed at curbing tax evasion by these entities.

The Finance Ministry has cautioned the public against engaging with offshore gaming platforms, despite endorsements from Bollywood celebrities, cricketers, and social media influencers. Around 700 offshore e-gaming companies are under the scanner for evading GST and failing to register.