A Chinese organized crime syndicate [1] [2] [3] [4], known as Vigorish Viper and linked to the Yabo Group [1] [3], dominates the illegal online gambling world by using advanced technology to exploit the global sports gambling economy [4].

Description

The group, now rebranded as Kaiyun Sports and part of a new entity called Ponymuah [1], operates a sophisticated cybercrime infrastructure [1], utilizing DNS configurations [1], website hosting [1] [3] [4], payment mechanisms [1] [3], and mobile apps to orchestrate its operations [1]. Vigorish Viper acquires sponsorships from European football clubs to promote illegal gambling sites [1], attracting a larger audience of bettors [1]. Additionally, the syndicate partners with cricket and kabaddi teams in India to advertise its brands [1]. With over 170,000 active domain names and advanced DNS CNAME traffic distribution systems [1] [3] [4], the group evades detection and law enforcement [2] [4]. Infoblox researchers have highlighted the syndicate’s sophistication and its significant impact on digital security [1], emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to combat such cybercrime effectively [1]. Vigorish Viper’s activities extend beyond China [2] [3], targeting users worldwide and operating in the People’s Republic of China without facing consequences [2]. The group uses encrypted chat apps [2], fingerprinting checks [2], and financial incentives to attract users and facilitate illegal betting activities [2]. Vigorish Viper also engages in illegal streaming and pornography sites [3], utilizing encrypted communications and custom-developed applications [3]. Various payment methods such as WeChat Pay [3], Alipay [3], and JD Pay are employed to facilitate betting, along with encrypted chat apps for communication with gamblers [3]. The syndicate’s operations involve human trafficking, with individuals coerced into supporting sports betting schemes and promoting cryptocurrency scams [3].

Conclusion

The activities of Vigorish Viper have far-reaching impacts on digital security and global sports gambling. Collaborative efforts are needed to combat such cybercrime effectively and protect users from exploitation. The sophistication of the syndicate’s operations highlights the evolving nature of online criminal activities and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies. Vigorish Viper’s use of advanced technology and global reach underscore the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate the risks posed by illegal online gambling syndicates.

References

[1] https://insights.havosoft.com/2024/07/22/experts-uncover-chinese-cybercrime-network-behind-gambling-and-human-trafficking/
[2] https://thehackernews.com/2024/07/experts-uncover-chinese-cybercrime.html
[3] https://www.redpacketsecurity.com/experts-uncover-chinese-cybercrime-network-behind-gambling-and-human-trafficking/
[4] https://www.443news.com/2024/07/chinese-vigorish-viper-exploits-dns-and-football-sponsorships-for-illegal-gambling/