Match-fixing is growing thanks to secret apps – this is how it really works
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31 May 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes Match-fixing is a growing problem in the sports world. Criminals use encrypted messaging apps such as Telegram and Signal to make agreements about the outcome of matches. These apps ensure that no one can just read along.
In 2022, the police in Italy discovered a network of match-fixers who made agreements about the outcome of football matches in the Serie B via Telegram. The messages were encrypted and difficult to trace, which made the investigation take months. Eventually, the police managed to crack the content and arrest 15 people.
Such apps make the work of detectives difficult. Conversations quickly disappear or are encrypted. This gives criminals an advantage.
Advanced technology helps with detection and prevention
Fortunately, technology also offers solutions. More and more sports associations and gambling companies are using data analysis and smart software to detect suspicious activities.
A good example comes from Sweden. There, a gambling company discovered that a lot of money was suddenly being bet on a low-ranking tennis match. The software raised the alarm because the betting pattern deviated noticeably from normal. The data analysts worked together with the police. It eventually turned out that a player had accepted money to lose on purpose. The software allowed this case to be solved quickly.
Technology is also being used in the Netherlands and Belgium. The KNVB in the Netherlands works with special algorithms that track betting patterns in amateur football. This helps to detect suspicious bets at an early stage.
How technology remains a double-edged sword
On the one hand, technology increases the problem of match-fixing. Criminals continue to look for clever ways to circumvent the rules. But on the other hand, technology also offers opportunities to prevent this.
Sports associations and researchers are working together on new methods. One example is the ‘IntegriSport’ project, in which police services from various European countries share tips and data. In this way, a suspicious match in Belgium can also help solve a case in the Netherlands.
Criminals keep trying new tricks, but researchers continue to innovate. This fight remains exciting and important for everyone who loves sports. Ultimately, we all want sports to remain fair.