We run an ID desk, so we see the same pattern often enough to know it well. Someone deposits for the IPL, has a good first week, then starts topping up after every loss. By the end of the month they are asking how fast a withdrawal can be done because rent is due. This page is for anyone who recognises some of that, in themselves or in someone close to them.

The basic truth: betting is paid entertainment, not income. The spread, the bookmaker rate and the session gap mean the average player loses over time. If you are betting to make money you need, it is already going wrong.

Warning signs: a quick self-check

Be honest. If two or more of these are true for you, take it seriously.

  • You have deposited more than you planned to, more than once this month.
  • You raise stakes after a loss to "get it back".
  • You have used borrowed money, a credit card, a loan app or money meant for bills or fees.
  • You hide how much you bet from family, or lie about it.
  • You check scores and your balance late at night and lose sleep over it.
  • Your mood for the day depends on whether you won.
  • You have tried to cut down and could not.
  • Work, studies or relationships are suffering.

Limits that actually work

Vague promises like "I'll be careful" do not hold up at 11 p.m. during a close chase. Concrete rules do.

  • Fix a monthly amount and treat it as spent. Example: ₹3,000 a month. Deposit it once. When it is gone, you are done until next month. No second top-up, no matter how good the next match looks.
  • Cap each bet. With ₹3,000 a month, a ₹150 stake (5%) means one bad evening cannot wipe you out. If you catch yourself typing ₹1,000, stop.
  • Watch lay liability. Laying ₹500 at 6.0 risks ₹2,500, not ₹500. Check the figure the panel blocks before you confirm.
  • Set a stop time. Decide when you log off before you log in, and do not bet after drinking.
  • Withdraw wins, do not recycle them. If you are up, take some out. A balance that sits on the panel usually gets bet again.
  • Never chase. Doubling up after a loss is the fastest route from a small loss to a serious one.

Understanding exactly how much each bet risks helps too. Our guide to how a betting exchange works walks through back and lay liability with real numbers.

Ask us to pause or close your ID

You do not need to explain or justify it. Message the WhatsApp number you normally use, from the number linked to your ID, and say one of these:

Say thisWhat we do
"Pause my ID for 30 days" (or any period)We lock the ID so you cannot log in or bet until the date you chose. We will not unlock it early because you ask on a bad night.
"Close my ID permanently"We close it, pay out any settled balance to your own account, and will not open a new ID for that number.
"Stop taking deposits from me"We stop loading deposits to your ID, even if you send a payment, and return any payment that arrives.

If a family member contacts us worried about someone, we cannot share account details, but we will listen and can encourage the player to take a break. You can also reach us through the contact page.

Closing an ID with us does not block other agents or other sites. If you want to stop fully, it helps to delete saved panel links, uninstall any home-screen shortcuts, and tell someone you trust so they can check in.

Getting help

Problem gambling is a recognised health issue, not a character flaw, and it often comes with stress, anxiety or low mood. Talking to someone helps.

  • Speak to a doctor or counsellor. A GP can refer you to a psychiatrist or counsellor who works with addiction.
  • Tele-MANAS, India's national mental health helpline: call 14416. It is free and available 24/7.
  • Talk to someone you trust, and be honest about the money involved. Debt is easier to sort out early.

If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.

Age and the law

Our service is for adults aged 18 and over only. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 restricts online money games nationally and several states have their own bans. You are responsible for checking the law where you live; this is not legal advice. Our full terms explain the rest.

Written and maintained by the 99exch.ind.in ID desk. The people who write these pages are the same people who set up IDs and handle pause and closure requests on WhatsApp. Last reviewed . Spotted something out of date? Tell us.