How to File a Complaint for Cybercrime in India?
How to File a Cybercrime Complaint in India
Step 1: Identify the Cybercrime
Confirm that the issue qualifies as a cybercrime (e.g., hacking, identity theft, online fraud, cyberbullying, phishing).
Note down all relevant details: messages, emails, website URLs, screenshots, transaction details, dates, times, and any communication with the offender.
Step 2: Collect Evidence
Preserve all electronic evidence safely (screenshots, emails, chat logs, transaction receipts).
Do not delete anything even if it’s offensive or threatening.
Step 3: File Complaint Online or Offline
Option A: File Online through the Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
Go to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal:
Click on ‘File a Complaint’.
Register or proceed as a guest.
Fill in the required details: personal info, description of the complaint, evidence uploads.
Submit the complaint.
Option B: File Complaint at Local Police Station
Visit your nearest police station with all the evidence.
Write a First Information Report (FIR) explaining the cybercrime.
Ask for a copy of the FIR for your records.
Option C: File Complaint at Specialized Cyber Crime Cell
Some states have dedicated cybercrime cells or cyber police stations.
Locate the nearest cybercrime cell and lodge your complaint.
Step 4: Track Your Complaint
Once submitted online, you will receive a complaint ID.
Use it to track the progress of your complaint on the portal.
Police or cybercrime officers may contact you for further details.
Step 5: Follow Up & Cooperate
Respond promptly to any calls or queries from investigating officers.
Provide any additional evidence or information requested.
Attend hearings if summoned.
Important Tips
Be truthful and detailed in your complaint.
Avoid sharing passwords or sensitive personal info unnecessarily.
If urgent (e.g., threat to life), immediately contact local police or emergency services.
Relevant Laws for Cybercrime Complaints
Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) (Sections 66, 66A, 66C, 66D, 66E, 67 etc.)
Indian Penal Code (IPC) provisions (Sections 420, 499, 500, 507, 509)
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for child-related cyber offenses.
Example: Types of Complaints You Can File Online
Identity theft
Online banking fraud
Cyberstalking and harassment
Publishing obscene material online
Phishing and online scams
Social media misuse
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