Jobaaj Stories
Krafton, BGMI, and the Data Leak Allegations: What We Know
The popular Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), developed by Krafton (the creators of PUBG), is embroiled in a data privacy scandal. A Maharashtra-based man, Santosh Torane, has filed a police complaint alleging that Krafton leaked and sold BGMI user data on Telegram, a messaging app known for its large file-sharing capabilities.
The Allegations Against Krafton
Torane’s FIR (First Information Report), filed in September 2024, claims Krafton sold user data for â‚ą2,000 per person without consent. The complaint names several senior Krafton executives, including WooYol Lim, Jitendra Bansal, Yoonal Soni, and Wooyol Shalom. This isn’t the first time Torane has raised concerns; he claims previous attempts to address the issue were ignored. The FIR lists charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for criminal conspiracy and cheating, as well as violations of the Information Technology Act.
Krafton's Response and the Legal Battle
Krafton denies the allegations, stating that data protection is paramount. However, the company has filed writ petitions in the Bombay High Court challenging the FIR. The court has scheduled a hearing for April 15, 2025, and interim orders have been extended until then. This legal battle raises significant questions about data privacy and the responsibility of gaming companies in handling user information.
The Implications for BGMI and the Gaming Industry
The controversy is particularly sensitive given BGMI's history. It replaced PUBG Mobile, which was banned in India in 2020 due to data privacy concerns. This new scandal could trigger renewed scrutiny from Indian regulators, potentially leading to another ban of BGMI. The case sets a crucial precedent for data protection within the Indian gaming industry and highlights the broader global concerns surrounding user data security.
What's Next?
The April 15, 2025, hearing will be pivotal. The outcome will not only determine Krafton’s legal fate but also shape the future of data privacy regulations within the Indian gaming sector. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of data security and responsible data handling practices for all companies, especially those operating in the lucrative and ever-expanding mobile gaming market.
