BGMI Under Fire Allegations of Data Misuse Stir Concerns Among Indian Gamers

For millions of Indian gamers, Battlegrounds Mobile India BGMI isn’t just a game it’s a community, a passion, and a daily escape. However, recent allegations against its developer, Krafton, have cast a shadow over this beloved pastime. Accusations of unauthorized data sharing have ignited debates about digital privacy and the future of BGMI in India.

The Heart of the Controversy

In September 2024, Santosh Torane, a resident of Maharashtra, filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Krafton India Pvt. Ltd. He alleged that the company violated service agreements by selling user data on Telegram for approximately ₹2,000 per subscriber. The charges include criminal conspiracy, cheating, and breaches under Sections 72, 72A, and 85 of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Legal Proceedings and Krafton Response

The Bombay High Court has scheduled a hearing on April 15, 2025, to address these serious allegations. Krafton has denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing its commitment to data security and compliance with Indian laws. In a statement, Krafton CEO, Sean Hyunil Sohn, assured fans that the company prioritizes user data protection and is engaging with authorities to resolve the matter.

A History of Data Privacy Concerns

This isn’t the first time Krafton has faced scrutiny over data practices. In 2021, the company admitted that BGMI shared some user data with servers outside India, including those in China, during its early access phase. Although Krafton claimed this was to enable certain game features and that users had consented, the incident raised significant privacy concerns.

The Potential Impact on BGMI Future

The current allegations have reignited fears of another ban on BGMI, reminiscent of the 2020 ban on PUBG Mobile due to national security concerns. With the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology closely monitoring the situation, the future of BGMI in India remains uncertain.

Community Reactions and the Road Ahead

The Indian gaming community is on edge. For many, BGMI is more than entertainment; it’s a livelihood. Content creators, esports athletes, and casual players alike are anxiously awaiting the outcome of the legal proceedings. The hope is for a transparent resolution that safeguards user data without dismantling the vibrant BGMI ecosystem.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and aims to provide an overview of the current situation regarding Krafton and BGMI. It does not constitute legal advice or an official statement from any involved parties. Readers are encouraged to follow official channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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