How to File a Cyber Crime Complaint in India - Step-by-Step Process

Every day, millions of people in India use the internet to shop, pay bills, transfer money, or apply for a loan on an online loan app. A single click on a fake link, downloading a fraudulent app, or sharing personal or banking details with the wrong person can result in financial loss within minutes.

Situations like this can happen to anyone, which is why knowing how to file a cybercrime complaint in India can make a real difference in recovering your money or stopping further misuse of data. Read on to understand how to report cybercrime online, some common types of cybercrime, and certain tips to stay protected.

What is a cybercrime?

A cybercrime is an illegal activity that involves a computer, mobile phone, or any other digital device, and an internet connection. Cybercriminals use technology to steal money, personal information, passwords, banking details, or even someone’s identity. Some cybercrimes target individuals, while others aim at businesses or government organisations.

What is a cybercrime complaint?

A cybercrime complaint is an official report submitted to the concerned authorities when someone becomes a victim of an online offence. Filing a complaint helps law enforcement agencies investigate the incident, identify the fraudsters, and take legal action wherever possible.

Many people assume they must visit a police station to make an online fraud complaint. However, the Government of India has simplified the reporting process. Victims can now file each and every cybercrime complaint online via the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

For a financial cyber fraud complaint, victims can dial the cybercrime helpline number: 1930

How to file a cybercrime complaint in India?

The Government of India has made cybercrime reporting simple through its dedicated online portal for citizens.

Step 1: Visit the official National Cyber Crime Portal

Step 2: Go to the ‘Register a Complaint’ option

Step 3: Enter your mobile number, generated OTP, and Captcha text

Step 4: Click on ‘Login’ for the next step

Step 5: Select the relevant complaint category

Step 6: Enter complete incident details, including website, transaction, and other details

Step 7: Upload supporting evidences

Step 8: Review and submit the complaint

Step 9: Save the acknowledgement/reference number

Common types of cybercrime in India

Cyber criminals use different methods to target people based on their online behaviour.

Tips to protect yourself from cybercrime

Staying alert while using digital services can reduce the odds of becoming a victim of cybercrime. Here are some practical tips to follow:

• Never share your OTP, PIN, CVV, or banking passwords with anyone
• Verify website URLs before entering personal or payment details
• Download RBI-approved loan apps only from the Play Store and App Store
• Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts
• Update your passwords at regular intervals
• Avoid using the same password across multiple platforms
• Avoid clicking on suspicious links or APK files received through SMS, emails, or social media
• Check your credit card statement and bank account regularly
• Ignore calls claiming guaranteed returns, lottery winnings, or urgent KYC updates
• Install antivirus software to protect your device
• Use a trusted online loan app like Kissht to apply for loans safely and securely

Conclusion

How to file a cybercrime complaint in India? Report it immediately through the official cybercrime complaint portal or by calling the cybercrime helpline (1930) in case of financial fraud. It is also advised to save screenshots, transaction details, emails, messages, and any other relevant evidence until the investigation is complete. Reporting the incident as soon as possible can help reduce financial losses and assist investigators.

FAQs

1. How to report cybercrime online in India?

You can report cybercrime in India using the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, calling the cybercrime helpline number: 1930 for financial fraud, or dialling emergency services at 112.

2. Can I get my money back after online fraud?

Yes, you can get your money back after online fraud. However, success depends on how fast you report this fraud, your payment method, and whether the funds can be frozen in time.

3. How long does it take to file a cybercrime complaint online?

Filing a cybercrime complaint online takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete the form on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

4. Is there any fee for filing a cybercrime complaint in India?

No. Filing a complaint through the official cybercrime portal is completely free.

5. Can a cybercrime complaint be tracked?

Yes, a cybercrime complaint can be tracked online using your unique acknowledgment/reference number received at the time of filing the complaint.