In today’s digital era, our phones, laptops, and even social media accounts hold a major part of our personal and financial life. From banking apps to digital payments, almost everything happens online — and so do crimes. Phishing, hacking, identity theft, online fraud, fake job offers, and cyberbullying are now common threats.
While most people panic when something goes wrong online, very few actually know how to file a cybercrime complaint properly. The truth is, India has a clear and simple system for reporting cybercrimes — both online and offline. This guide explains it step by step.
⚖ Understanding What Counts as a Cybercrime
Before filing a complaint, it’s important to understand whether your case
qualifies as a cybercrime. Some common examples include:
- Online financial frauds (UPI scams, credit card misuse, fake investment
links)
- Social media hacking or impersonation
- Cyberstalking and harassment
- Email spoofing or phishing
- Publishing obscene or morphed images
- Online defamation or blackmailing
- Data theft or hacking of websites or accounts
If you have faced any of the above, you can and should file a cybercrime
complaint immediately.
Step 1: Collect All Possible Evidence
Before you approach the authorities, gather every detail that proves your
claim. Cybercrimes leave a digital trail — and the evidence is often the
strongest part of your case.
Keep copies or screenshots of:
- Emails, chat messages, or suspicious links
- Screenshots of the fraudulent transaction or conversation
- Bank statements showing unauthorized activity
- URLs or usernames of fake profiles
- Any other digital proof (like time stamps or IP details)
🌐 Step 2: File a Complaint Online (National Cybercrime Portal)
The Government of India has made it easy to file cybercrime complaints online.
Website: https://cybercrime.gov.in
Steps:
1. Click on “Report Other Cybercrimes” or “Report Women/Child Related Crime”.
2. Create a login ID with your mobile number and OTP.
3. Fill in all required details — your name, contact, and description of the
incident.
4. Upload supporting documents.
5. Review and submit.
6. You’ll receive a reference number to track your complaint.
Step 3: File an Offline Complaint at a Police Station
You can file a written complaint at your nearest police station. Cybercrime is
recognized as a cognizable offence.
Include:
- Full name, address, contact details
- Description of the incident
- Evidence (screenshots, emails, etc.)
- Date/time of occurrence
Submit to:
- Local Police Station or
- Cybercrime Police Station in your city
📞 Step 4: Contact Helplines (For Immediate Assistance)
- National Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930
- Women Helpline: 1091
- Email: helpdesk@cybercrime.gov.in
📑 Step 5: Follow Up and Track Your Complaint
Use your reference number to track the status of your complaint at
https://cybercrime.gov.in.
If it’s a financial fraud, inform your bank immediately.
⚖️ Important Legal Provisions
| Law | Section | Covers |
|------|-----------|-----------|
| IT Act, 2000 | 66C | Identity theft |
| IT Act, 2000 | 66D | Cheating by impersonation |
| IT Act, 2000 | 67 | Publishing obscene content |
| IPC | 509 | Insulting modesty of a woman |
| IPC | 420 | Cheating and dishonesty |
| IT Act, 2000 | 43 | Unauthorized access |
💡 Pro Tips for Digital Safety
1. Use two-factor authentication (2FA).
2. Never share OTPs or passwords.
3. Avoid unknown links or attachments.
4. Update passwords and antivirus regularly.
5. Be alert of fake offers.
🔚 Conclusion
Filing a cybercrime complaint in India is not complicated — it just needs
awareness and evidence. The faster you act, the better your chances of
recovery. Digital life can be safe and empowering only when we know how to
protect ourselves legally.
