TGCSB Conducts Meet on Online Gaming Addiction
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Hyderabad: The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) convened a high-level meeting on Wednesday to address growing concerns over online gaming addiction and the financial losses linked to it. Key stakeholders, including the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS), CEOs and founders of major gaming platforms, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) and the department of telecommunications (DoT) gathered to discuss the rising issues surrounding online gaming. Shikha Goel, director of TGCSB, highlighted that the surge in online gaming, especially among the youth, has led to a rise in addiction, financial distress and suicides due to mounting debts.
The meeting focused on finding effective measures to regulate and mitigate the harmful impact of online gaming in Telangana. Goel briefed attendees on the Telangana Gaming Act, emphasising its legal provisions and how they apply to online gaming activities. Earlier this week, TGCSB issued notices to gaming platforms involved in reported cases in the state, instructing them to disable access to their services within Telangana. Concerns were also raised regarding the lack of regulation for offshore betting and gambling sites and apps.
Discussions included potential technological solutions like geofencing, stricter KYC norms and other regulatory measures to block access to gaming platforms violating local laws. A formal letter has been submitted to the ministry of home affairs (MHA) requesting the creation of a centralised regulatory body to oversee both Indian and offshore online gaming platforms and ensure compliance with state-specific legal frameworks.
The TGCSB highlighted the dangers of excessive gaming, which can lead to addiction, financial problems and serious mental health issues. Citizens can report illegal gaming activities and those affected by gaming addiction or financial distress are advised to seek immediate help by contacting the cybercrime helpline at 1930 or visit www.cybercrime.gov.in.