Searching watch IPL 2026 for free? That click may expose your passwords and banking details to hackers, how to stay safe
Follow UsResearchers identified over 600 fake IPL ticket websites impersonating popular booking platforms with cloned designs and fake QR-based tickets.
More than 400 unofficial IPL streaming websites were allegedly found distributing malware through fake software updates and redirects.
CloudSEK advises fans to avoid unofficial streaming links, verify URLs carefully and enable two-factor authentication for better protection.
The excitement around the Indian Premier League is no longer attracting just cricket fans. As per a new report by CloudSEK, IPL 2026 has triggered a sharp increase in online scams, including fake ticket booking platforms and malicious live streaming websites targeting cricket fans across India. The cybersecurity firm claimed that it identified more than 600 fake domains impersonating legitimate ticketing platforms and selling fake IPL tickets.
SurveyThese websites reportedly copied the branding, colours, and layouts of popular ticketing services to appear authentic. Many also displayed urgency-driven messages such as “limited seats left” and countdown timers to pressure users into making quick payments.
The researchers say the scam websites were heavily promoted via Instagram reels, Facebook ads, Telegram channels and search engine results. The victims were asked to enter personal information and make payments via UPI, QR codes or cards. After payment, users reportedly get professional-looking PDF tickets offering booking details and invalid QR codes. Most victims discovered the fraud only after arriving at the stadium.
IPL Live Streaming For Free or malware trap
Not only that, but the report also mentioned growing risks linked to unofficial IPL live streaming platforms. CloudSEK claims it uncovered over 400 suspicious streaming websites allegedly being used to distribute malware.
As per the researchers, these websites often appeared in search results for phrases such as “watch IPL free online” and were circulated widely through Reddit, Telegram and Facebook groups. In some cases, the sites even surfaced through AI-generated search recommendations.
According to the report, users who clicked on streaming buttons were redirected through multiple advertising and tracking networks before landing on fake software update or installer pages. During testing, CloudSEK researchers discovered campaigns that targeted macOS users with malware disguised as Apple security updates or GitHub app installers.
The researchers stated that the malware can steal passwords, browser sessions, cryptocurrency wallet data, Telegram information, and sensitive files from infected devices. Some malware variants allegedly installed persistent backdoors, allowing attackers to maintain remote access to systems.
How to stay safe
CloudSEK has advised users to purchase IPL tickets only through official platforms and avoid links shared on social media or messaging apps. The company also warned users against relying on free streaming websites, calling them potential malware delivery channels.
Users are further advised to verify URLs carefully, avoid unknown downloads, keep devices updated and enable two-factor authentication on banking and email accounts.
