How to File a Cybercrime Complaint in India (Step-by-Step with Links)

Helpful information on How to File a Cybercrime Complaint in India (Step-by-Step with Links)

As cybercrimes continue to rise across India — from online frauds and identity theft to defamation and sextortion — knowing how to report these crimes is crucial. The Indian government has streamlined the complaint process through national and state portals, and this guide walks you through every step to ensure your digital rights are protected.

Jump to:

• Step-by-Step: Filing on cybercrime.gov.in
• Reporting at Local Police/Cyber Cells
• What Evidence Do You Need?
• What Happens After Filing?
• Do You Need an FIR?
• What If Police Refuse to Help?
• FAQs for Victims
• Final Tips & Further Reading

Step-by-Step: Filing a Complaint at cybercrime.gov.in

The official Government of India portal to report cybercrimes is cybercrime.gov.in. Here’s how to file a complaint:

1. Visit cybercrime.gov.in
2. Click “File a Complaint” and select between Women/Child related or Other Cybercrime
3. Create an account using your email and mobile OTP
4. Fill in the incident details: date, time, platform, and suspected parties
5. Upload supporting evidence (screenshots, links, chat logs)
6. Submit and save the reference number for follow-up

This method is available 24x7 and can be used by both Indian citizens and NRIs.

Reporting via Police Station or Cyber Cell

If you prefer offline filing, visit your nearest police station or dedicated cybercrime cell. You can:

• Ask for the cyber cell division at any major district police office
• Submit a written complaint (include your name, address, contact, and incident details)
• Attach a pen drive or printouts of evidence if possible

State Cyber Cells (Selected)

• Delhi: delhipolice.gov.in
• Mumbai: Local cyber division via national portal
• Bangalore: cyberpolicebangalore.nic.in
• Hyderabad: cyberabadpolice.gov.in

What Evidence Do You Need?

Strong evidence strengthens your case. Gather:

• Screenshots of offensive content, messages, emails
• Chat logs or URLs to fake profiles
• Transaction IDs for financial fraud
• Mobile numbers, email headers, or IP addresses if available

Do not delete the content before reporting — it may be vital.

What Happens After Filing?

You will receive a complaint/reference number. Police or cyber teams may:

• Contact you for additional details
• Forward the case to a local jurisdiction or specialized officer
• Begin a preliminary inquiry before FIR is registered

For women/child-related complaints, the law mandates quicker action.

Do You Need an FIR?

Filing a complaint online does not automatically register an FIR. If the issue involves financial loss, harassment, or defamation, you may need to:

• Visit a police station and request an FIR registration
• Submit a written application (retain a stamped copy)

Refusal to file an FIR in cognizable offenses is against the law. Refer to our guide to cybercrime definitions to determine the seriousness.

What If Police Refuse to Help?

If your complaint is ignored or dismissed, take these steps:

• Request a written refusal
• Escalate to the SP or DCP in writing
• File a private complaint before a Magistrate under CrPC
• Use RTI or NHRC/NCPCR if applicable

Cybercrime Complaint FAQs

• Can I file anonymously? Yes, especially for child abuse or harassment cases
• Can NRIs file complaints? Yes, via cybercrime.gov.in from anywhere globally
• Do I need a lawyer? Not for initial filing, but legal help is advised for escalations
• Can women file without family involvement? Yes. Women's helplines and NGOs can assist

Final Tips & Further Reading

• Always follow up using your reference number
• If no progress in 15 days, escalate to cyber cell head or SP
• Don’t pay anyone unofficially to “hurry” your case

Read next:

• What Is Considered a Cybercrime in India?
• Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
• Online Bank Fraud: What the Law Says

Back to Pillar Post: Cyber Law for the Everyday Indian