The widespread trading of inside information to gain an advantage for those wagering on games as well as numerous players betting on their own performance, has reportedly shocked both police and NRL administrators.

Sources have told Fairfax Media that NRL officials have been alerted to these practices by detectives from the NSW Organised Crime Squad. Last September, Strike Force Nuralda was set up to investigate match fixing within the NRL.

Officials at Telstra Stadium. Credit:Andrew Quilty

While it is understood that organised match fixing has not been detected, investigators from Strike Force Nuralda have discovered that as well as players betting on themselves, there has been a steady trade of inside information where players and officials have been passing on confidential information to punters.

Under the NSW Crimes Act is it a criminal offence, punishable by up to two years jail, if someone passes on "inside information" which is used to make a bet.