China Cracks Down on World Cup Gambling Networks

Chinese authorities have intensified enforcement against illegal gambling operations linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with police carrying out investigations and arrests across multiple provinces during the tournament.

Online Betting Ring Busted in Shaanxi

In Xi’an, located in Shaanxi Province, police arrested seven individuals accused of running an online gambling platform tied to World Cup matches. According to local reports, the group offered several betting options and generated revenue through commission-based activities.

Authorities stated that transactions handled by the operation exceeded 100,000 yuan (approximately $14,770). Following a 19-hour investigation, all seven suspects reportedly admitted their involvement and were placed under criminal detention on suspicion of operating an illegal gambling business.

Gambling Promotion Network Dismantled in Guangxi

Meanwhile, police in Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, broke up a separate group accused of directing users to illegal betting platforms.

According to the Ministry of Public Security’s cybersecurity division, the network had been promoting World Cup-related gambling websites across social media channels since May 2026. Investigators said the group used online advertisements and promotional content to attract users to unauthorized betting services.

Authorities highlighted the case as an example of how gambling operators increasingly rely on digital marketing and social platforms to expand their reach during major sporting events.

Football Betting Case Investigated in Liaoning

On June 12, the opening day of the World Cup, police in Liaoyang, Liaoning Province, uncovered another illegal betting operation focused on football matches.

Investigators reported that the suspect accepted wagers on match results and scores through unauthorized gambling applications, while payments were processed via WeChat. The individual was subsequently placed under administrative detention.

Public Warnings Issued Before Tournament

Ahead of the competition, China’s Ministry of Public Security released warning videos through its official Weibo account, urging citizens to avoid gambling-related scams connected to the World Cup.

Officials reiterated that the National Sports Lottery Center has not authorized any online platform to sell lottery tickets. As a result, authorities consider websites offering online lottery sales or sports betting services to be fraudulent.

The public was also advised not to engage with online gambling platforms, click suspicious links or download unverified applications. Authorities further recommended purchasing tickets and merchandise only through official channels.

Ongoing Monitoring During the World Cup

The latest investigations demonstrate China’s continued efforts to combat illegal gambling activity associated with major sporting events. With cases reported in several regions, law enforcement agencies remain focused on identifying betting operators, promotional networks and individuals involved in unauthorized gambling activities throughout the tournament.