Online Gaming in India: Technology, Policy, and Challenges

Cover
Half Title
Title Page
Copyright Page
Table of Contents
Acknowledgment
Editors’ Biography
List of Contributors
Introduction
1 Online Games in India: Ancient Legacy, Modern Challenges
	1.1 Introduction
	1.2 Ancient Beginnings
	1.3 Cultural Integration and Significance
	1.4 Socio-Economic Dimensions
	1.5 Renaissance in Medieval India
	1.6 Colonial Influence and Modern Adaptations
	1.7 Advent of Online Games
	1.8 Fantasy Sports: Dream11 as an Example
	1.9 Card Games: Online Rummy
	1.10 Casual Games: From Pachisi to Ludo
	1.11 Esports in India: A New Avenue for Competition
	1.12 Way Forward
	1.13 Need for Mastery and Control
	1.14 Autonomy
	1.15 Relatedness
	1.16 Escapism and Coping
	1.17 Identity Formation and Exploration
	References
2 Evolution of Jurisprudence On Online Games of Skill
	2.1 Introduction
	2.2 Judicial Precedents On Games of Skill in the Pre-Internet Era
	2.3 Recent Judicial Precedents On Online Games of Skill
	2.4 Conclusion: Final Clarity On Online Games of Skill Awaited
	References
3 In Regulatory Purgatory: How Many Lives Left Before Mission Success for the Indian Gaming Industry?
	3.1 Introduction
	3.2 Position of Wagering and Gambling in India and Legal Concerns Associated With Recent Regulation
		3.2.1 Games of Chance and Games of Skill and Regulation Thereof
		3.2.2 Adoption of a Regulatory Framework
	3.3 Conclusion
	References
4 Pathways to Stakeholder-Led Regulation in Online Gaming
	4.1 Introduction
	4.2 The Need to Regulate Online Gaming in India
	4.3 The MEITY Rules: A Closer Look
	4.4 What Do the Proposed Regulations Expect From SRBs?
	4.5 Understanding the Rationale for Self-Regulation and Its Pros and Cons in the Online Gaming Industry
	4.6 Models of Self-Regulation and How They Apply to Online Gaming in India
	4.7 What Are the Prospects of Self-Regulation for the Industry
		4.7.1 Addressing Regulatory Ambiguities
		4.7.2 Structured Grievance Redressal Mechanisms
		4.7.3 Enforcement and Oversight
	4.8 Conclusion
	References
5 Regulatory Progress and Challenges in India’s Booming Online Gaming Market
	5.1 Introduction
	5.2 Legal Certainty for the Online Gaming Industry
	5.3 Grey Areas
	5.4 Self-Regulation Model
	5.5 Implication of Disallowing Wagering Games: Integrity as Opposed to Avoidance
	5.6 Understanding the Definition of Addiction Vis-A-Vis Psychological and Social Impact of Online Gaming
	5.7 Cross-Jurisdictional Analysis of the Regulatory Framework
		5.7.1 United Kingdom (UK)
			5.7.1.1 Account-Level Protections
			5.7.1.2 Safety By Design
			5.7.1.3 Collaborative Data Sharing and Privacy
			5.7.1.4 Age-Gating
			5.7.1.5 Marketing and Advertisement
		5.7.2 South Korea
			5.7.2.1 Loot Boxes
			5.7.2.2 User Verification and Preventive Measures
			5.7.2.3 Age-Rating
	5.8 Conclusion and Way Forward
	References
6 Of Monopolistic Attitude, Power Mongering and Trust Deficit
	References
7 Regulating Online Gaming: Centre Versus State Competence
	7.1 Legislative Competence Over Online Gaming
	7.2 Legislative Competence Over Chance Games
	7.3 Legislative Competence Over Skill Games
		7.3.1 State Competence: Sports, Entertainment and Amusements
	7.4 Extending Central Competence to Skill Games?
		7.4.1 The Scope of Central Competence Over ‘Intermediaries’
		7.4.2 Central Competence Over Foreign and Inter-State Trade and Commerce
		7.4.3 Public Interest
	7.5 Scope of Competence: Fundamental Rights
	7.6 Federalistic Motivations
	7.7 Conclusion
	References
8 Walking On Eggshells: Prospects of Self-Regulating Online Gaming in India
	8.1 Introduction
	8.2 Identifying Fallacies in the Rules
		8.2.1 Vagueness in the Definition of “Online Gaming”
		8.2.2 Engagement in Various Self-Regulatory Organisations
		8.2.3 Uncertainty Regarding State Laws
		8.2.4 The Government’s Role
		8.2.5 Absurd Requirements for Advertisements
	8.3 Practical Evaluation Using Theories and Practices of Self-Regulation
		8.3.1 The Legal Certainty and Outcome-Based Regulatory Approach
		8.3.2 The Duck Type
		8.3.3 Minimal Governmental Intervention
		8.3.4 Enforcement
	8.4 Way Forward
	References
9 Challenges and Prospects: An Analysis of Fantasy Sports Regulation in India
	9.1 Introduction
	9.2 Evolution of Fantasy Sports in India
	9.3 In the Balance: Navigating Between Ban and Regulation
	9.4 The Necessity to Regulate
		9.4.1 Financial Risk and Addiction
		9.4.2 Consumer Issues
		9.4.3 Contracts With Users
		9.4.4 Data Protection and Privacy Concerns
	9.5 Strategies for the Future Ahead
	References
10 Online Gambling Through an Anti-Money Laundering Perspective: A Cross-Jurisdictional Analysis
	10.1 Introduction
	10.2 The Non-Uniformity of Gambling Legislations Across the Nation
	10.3 The Legal Landscape in India
	10.4 The Challenges in the Apparatus Dealing With Money Laundering Through Online Gambling Intermediaries
	10.5 Legal Position of Online Gambling Checks Globally
		10.5.1 United Kingdom
		10.5.2 United States
		10.5.3 European Union
	10.6 Proposed Changes to the Regulatory Framework Governing Online Gambling in India
	10.7 Conclusion
	References
11 Cyber-Security and Data Privacy Challenges in Online Gaming: Analyzing the Cyber-Security Risks and Challenges Faced By Online Gaming Platforms in India
	11.1 Introduction
		11.1.1 Background and Significance
		11.1.2 Objectives of the Chapter
		11.1.3 Structure of the Chapter
	11.2 Cyber-Security Risks in Online Gaming
		11.2.1 Account Hijacking
		11.2.2 Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks
		11.2.3 Cheating and Hacking
		11.2.4 Phishing and Social Engineering
		11.2.5 Malware Distribution
	11.3 Data Privacy Challenges in Online Gaming
		11.3.1 Collection of Personal Data
		11.3.2 Third-Party Sharing
		11.3.3 User Tracking
		11.3.4 Geolocation Data
		11.3.5 Data Breaches
			11.3.5.1 Regulatory Framework
			11.3.5.2 Online Gaming Self-Regulatory Body
			11.3.5.3 Grievance Redressal Mechanism
	11.4 Conclusion
	References
12 Blockchain in Online Gaming: Navigating the Legal Landscape for India and the World
	12.1 Introduction
	12.2 Navigating the Legal Complexities of Blockchain Integration
		12.2.1 A Brief History – Blockchain Gaming
		12.2.2 NFTs: A Revolutionary Concept for Virtual Asset Ownership and Trade
		12.2.3 Unique Legal Challenges Arising From Decentralization
		12.2.4 Comprehensive Analysis: Addressing Security, Privacy, and Consumer Rights
	12.3 The Indian Legal Landscape and Global Perspective On Regulating Blockchain-Enabled Gaming
		12.3.1 Legal Hurdles and Prospects of Blockchain Integration
		12.3.2 Global Comparative Analysis
			12.3.2.1 United Kingdom (UK)
			12.3.2.2 United States (US)
			12.3.2.3 Malta
			12.3.2.4 Japan
			12.3.2.5 China
		12.3.3 Jurisdictional Quandaries: Cross-Border Implications and Challenges
		12.3.4 Chief Visions From Successful Regulatory Models Globally
		12.3.5 Instances of Nations With Progressive Approaches
	12.4 Pragmatic Recommendations for Stakeholders and Policymakers
		12.4.1 Developers
		12.4.2 Publishers
		12.4.3 Platforms
	12.5 Empowering Policymakers: Navigating the Dynamics Landscape of Regulation
		12.5.1 Collaboration Approach
	12.6 Conclusion
	References
13 A Study On the Legal Challenges in Online Gaming With Special Reference to Network, Accessibility, and Piracy
	13.1 Introduction
	13.2 The Legal Framework Governing Online Gaming in India
		13.2.1 Overview of the Indian Legal System and Online Gaming
		13.2.2 Current Legislation and Policies
	13.3 Network Challenges and Legal Implications
		13.3.1 The State of Network Infrastructure in India
		13.3.2 Legal Concerns Arising From Network Issues
	13.4 Accessibility and Inclusivity in Online Gaming
		13.4.1 Economic and Social Accessibility
		13.4.2 Language and Cultural Barriers
		13.4.3 Legal Perspectives
		13.4.4 The Role of Policymakers and Industry
	13.5 The Menace of Piracy in Online Gaming
		13.5.1 Scope and Reasons for Piracy
		13.5.2 Legal and Industry Challenges
		13.5.3 Consumer Awareness and Industry Response
	13.6 Conclusion
	Bibliography
14 Innovation and Policy: Balancing Technological Advancements With Regulatory Frameworks in Indian Online Gaming
	14.1 Introduction
	14.2 Technological Innovations in Indian Online Gaming
	14.3 Regulatory Landscape for Online Gaming in India
	14.4 Challenges in Balancing Innovation and Regulation
	14.5 International Perspectives and Best Practices
	14.6 Case Studies
	14.7 Future Pathways: Recommendations for a Balanced Approach
	14.8 Conclusion
	References
15 Dark Patterns in the Gaming Industry: Legal Implications and Safeguarding User Rights
	15.1 Introduction
	15.2 What Are Dark Patterns?
	15.3 Legal Landscape of Dark Patterns in the Gaming Sector in the USA
	15.4 Relevant Laws and Regulations
	15.5 Case Study: FTC Vs. Epic Games
	15.6 Legal Landscape of Dark Patterns in the Gaming Sector in the European Union
	15.7 Legal Landscape of Dark Patterns in the Gaming Sector in India
	15.8 Challenges in Regulating Dark Patterns in the Gaming Sector in India
	15.9 Recommendations
	15.10 Conclusion
	References
16 Navigating the Legal Landscape of Online Gaming in India: Precedence, Regulations, and Future Perspectives
	16.1 Introduction
	16.2 Historical Perspective: Precedence of Gaming Laws in India
		16.2.1 Definition of Gaming
		16.2.2 Game of Skill V. Game of Chance
	16.3 Current Regulatory Framework for Online Gaming in India
		16.3.1 Key Provisions of Online Gaming Rules
		16.3.2 Taxation Landscape
	16.4 Conclusion and Way Forward
	Note
	References
17 Do E-Sports Broadcasts Infringe Videogame Copyright?
	17.1 Introduction
	17.2 Understanding E-Sports
	17.3 Indian Copyright Laws
	17.4 Copyright in Videogames
	17.5 Are Unauthorised E-Sports Broadcasts Infringing?
	17.6 Conclusion
	Acknowledgments
	Note
	References
18 Player Image Rights and Online Gaming: Decoding the Game
	18.1 Introduction
	18.2 Legal and Judicial Framework
	18.3 Critical Analysis of the Order
	18.4 Conclusion
	References
19 Copyrightability of Digital Player Cards in Online Fantasy Sports: A Conundrum in the Indian Copyright Law
	19.1 Introduction
	19.2 Analysing the Digital Collectibles Pte Ltd. V. Galactus Funware Technology Pvt. Ltd. Judgement
		19.2.1 Background
		19.2.2 Arguments
		19.2.3 Judgement
	19.3 Can Digital Player Cards Be Granted Protection Under Copyright Law?
		19.3.1 Whether Graphic Works of Images Available in Public Domain Bars Copyright Claim?
		19.3.2 Whether Player Statistics On DPCs Can Be Given Exclusivity?
		19.3.3 Whether Personality Rights Can Be Said to Have Been Infringed When OFS Platform Use Images and Player Statistics Available in the Public Domain?
	19.4 Protection of Digital Player Cards Under Copyright Law: A Global Perspective
		19.4.1 United States
		19.4.2 Australia
		19.4.3 Europe
	19.5 Conclusion and Recommendations
	References
20 Navigating Legal and Operational Uncertainty Around Advertisement of Online Games
	20.1 Introduction
	20.2 Legal and Operational Concerns
	20.3 Online Game Advertising Regulation Landscape Before the IT Rules
	20.4 The 2023 MeitY Rules
	20.5 Global Practice On Regulation of Betting and Gambling Advertisements
		20.5.1 EU
		20.5.2 USA
		20.5.3 UK
		20.5.4 Australia
	20.6 Conclusion
	References
21 Gender Dynamics in Online Gaming: Exploring Participation and Representation in India
	21.1 Introduction
	21.2 Participation in Online Gaming
	21.3 Representation in Online Gaming
	21.4 Online Gaming Culture in India
	21.5 The Legal Jurisprudence and Regulations
	21.6 The Way Forward
	References
22 Child’s Consent in Online Gaming Click-Wrap Agreements and Its Intersection With Privacy
	21.1 Introduction
	21.2 Child’s Capacity to Gaming Click-Wrap Agreement
		21.2.1 Revisiting Section 11 of Indian Contract Act, 1872
		21.2.2 Identification of Contracting Party: Child Or Parent
	21.3 Collection of Child’s Personal Information Through Gaming Click-Wrap Agreement
		21.3.1 Requirement of Parental Consent
		21.3.2 Age-Verification Process
		21.3.3 Unauthorized Information Disclosure to Gaming Platforms
	21.4 Online Gaming Platforms and Their GDPR Compliance On Collection of Child’s Personal Data
		21.4.1 Article 8 GDPR
		21.4.2 Data Protection Principles and Online Gaming
			21.4.2.1 Data Processing
			21.4.2.2 Data Collection
			21.4.2.3 Data Minimalization
			21.4.2.4 Storage Limitation
	21.5 Child’s Privacy in Indian E-Gaming Applications Vis-A-Vis Other Jurisdictions
		21.5.1 European Union (European Commission)
		21.5.2 Canada (Office of Privacy Commissioner, Canada)
		21.5.3 United States (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule – COPPA)
	21.6 Proposed Privacy Model
	21.7 UNICEF Recommendations for Online Gaming Platforms
	21.8 Conclusion and Suggestions
	References
23 Responsible and Ethical Framework for Online Gaming: A Shared Responsibility
	23.1 Introduction
		23.1.1 Driving Diversity and Inclusion
		23.1.2 A Double-Edged Sword
		23.1.3 Need for Responsible Gaming Practices
	23.2 Stakeholder Motives Towards Responsible Gaming
		23.2.1 Users
		23.2.2 Online Gaming Platforms
		23.2.3 Medical and Clinical Fraternity
		23.2.4 Academia and Civil Society
		23.2.5 Governments
	23.3 Need for Convergent View On Responsible Gaming
		23.3.1 Outlining Responsibilities and Effective Tools
		23.3.2 Need for a Standardised Approach
	23.4 Principles of Responsible Gaming
		23.4.1 Informed Choice
		23.4.2 Player Protection
		23.4.3 Ethical Game Design
		23.4.4 Role of Research
		23.4.5 Ethical Impact Assessment Framework
	23.5 A Shared Responsibility
		23.5.1 Research and Civil Society
		23.5.2 Gaming Platforms
		23.5.3 Government
	23.6 Conclusion
	References
24 A Comparative Study of the GGR and Turnover Models of Taxing Online Gaming
	24.1 Introduction
	24.2 Turnover Model
		24.2.1 Turning Away From Turnover Taxes
		24.2.2 Low Rates, High Turnovers: Successful Implementation of the Turnover Tax
	24.3 GGR Tax: A Bet That Pays
		24.3.1 Low Rates: 5%–15%
		24.3.2 Moderate Range: 15%–25%
		24.3.3 Intermediate Range: 30%–50%
		24.3.4 High Range: Above 50%
	24.4 Conclusion
	References
25 GST and Online Gaming Sector: A Taxing Saga
	Introduction
	Taxation of ‘Betting and Gambling’ Prior to CAA
	Taxation of ‘Betting and Gambling’ After CAA
	Interpretation of the Term ‘Betting and Gambling’
	Early Beginnings in GST Laws
	GTPL Case and the Beginning of a Never-Ending Saga
	Key Argument of the Department and the Conclusion Reached By the Hon’ble High Court
	Key Judicial Precedents in the Context of Online Fantasy Games
	Amendments Made to the GST Framework With Effect From 1 October 2023 and Tenability of the GST Department’s Position in Light of the Same
	Current Status of Disputes Against Online Gaming/Gambling Companies and the Way Forward
	Concluding Thoughts
	Notes
	References
Index