Nepal Blocks 200+ Betting Apps and Websites

Nepal has blocked more than 200 betting applications and associated websites following a government directive requiring internet providers to restrict access to online gambling platforms nationwide.

The action was taken under a 100-point Governance Reform Action Plan approved during the first Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Balendra Shah. Point 42 of the plan instructed the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology to implement the measure immediately.

The Nepal Telecommunications Authority, working alongside internet service providers, began blocking the identified platforms within 24 hours of receiving the directive.

Among the affected services were offshore betting brands including Mostbet, 1XBet, Megapari, 22Bet, Parimatch and Betwinner. These platforms had continued to be accessible to users in Nepal for years despite online gambling being prohibited under the country's laws.

The government has indicated that restricting access to websites is only one part of the wider enforcement effort. The telecommunications regulator has also been directed to monitor online activity and take action against individuals or networks involved in promoting or facilitating betting.

Enforcement of Existing Gambling Laws

Online betting was already prohibited in Nepal under the Civil Criminal Code 2017 and the Advertisement Regulation Act. As a result, the latest campaign is intended to strengthen enforcement of existing legislation rather than introduce a new gambling ban.

The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has warned that participating in, promoting or facilitating illegal betting can result in criminal penalties. These include possible asset confiscation, imprisonment of up to one year and fines of up to Rs. 10,000.

Officials have described the campaign as part of broader efforts to enforce existing laws and limit financial exploitation.

Authorities have also called on members of the public to report illegal betting activities. Users have been warned against trying to access blocked services through VPNs or other alternative methods.

Offshore Betting Platforms Attracted Nepali Users

Offshore betting operators had developed a significant user base in Nepal by providing sports betting, casino-style games, live wagering and virtual gaming.

Cricket and football were among the markets commonly offered by these services. Users could fund their accounts through digital payment services and international payment cards, allowing relatively easy access to offshore platforms.

This accessibility contributed to betting becoming more widespread among students, unemployed young people and salaried workers seeking quick financial returns.

Cybersecurity specialists cited in the reporting also highlighted social media's role in promoting gambling platforms. Influencers and online advertisements helped expose younger audiences to betting services even though the activity was illegal in Nepal.

The concerns also extend beyond gambling losses. Since many of the platforms operate outside Nepal's jurisdiction, users have limited protection when disputes occur. Complaints involving frozen accounts, suspected fraud and unpaid winnings have become recurring issues.

Unregulated financial transfers have also raised concerns about possible financial crimes, including money laundering.

Website Blocking May Not Eliminate Betting Demand

Although the shutdown has affected more than 200 betting apps and websites, the government faces a broader challenge beyond restricting online access.

Some former users have welcomed the measures, particularly amid concerns about the increasing visibility of gambling among younger people and the financial losses associated with betting. Others argue that a blanket ban could drive the activity further underground.

This debate is now part of Nepal's wider enforcement campaign.

With more than 200 platforms blocked, authorities are continuing to focus on monitoring online activity and taking action against networks involved in promoting or facilitating betting. The effectiveness of the campaign will depend on continued enforcement and efforts to address the demand that previously enabled offshore betting services to attract users in Nepal.