Filing a Cyber Crime Online Complaint in India: Step-by-Step Guide

Digital instruments have become an integral part of our daily lives. They have increased accessibility and convenience. However, it has also made us prone to cyber attacks from all over the world. Cyber crime is changing with time. It started with telecom hackers. Today, they hide behind the crypto world. The cybercriminals are constantly advancing. They invent new ways to conduct fraud and dupe people. Governments are constantly working to keep tabs on cyber crime. They are constantly working to drive people to report online fraud. This blog teaches you how to file cyber crime online complaint.

What is Cyber Crime?

Cyber Crime - Phishing
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It is an illegal activity conducted using the Internet. It can also occur with other digital communication technologies. The cyber criminals target individuals and corporations. They also target governments. Their main intention is to steal and harm. They also disrupt operations. 

Cybercriminals exploit the weaknesses in computer systems and networks for their attacks. They can cause considerable monetary and emotional harm.

Cyber crime is often invisible. However, its impact is far-reaching. The loss can be severe. It can be a financial theft or invasion of privacy. They can attack on a large scale by attacking corporations and governments.

The next-gen cybercriminals are sophisticated in their methods. Hence, it is necessary to understand the nature of crime to protect yourself.

Types of Cyber Crimes

Identity Theft

It involves stealing personal or financial information to commit fraud. The criminals use it to make unauthorised transactions. They can also apply for loans or engage in fraud using your data.

Phishing

It tricks individuals into providing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details. The cybercriminals pose as a legitimate entity. Phishing occurs through emails and messages. It can also take place on fake websites that look legitimate.

Hacking

Criminals gain unauthorised access to computer systems or networks to steal or destroy data. Hackers can target individuals, businesses, or government institutions. Their motives can range from financial gain to activism.

Cyberbullying

It uses digital platforms to harass and threaten individuals. They use social media or messaging apps. They can easily target bullies because of the Internet’s anonymity.

Ransomware Attacks

Cybercriminals install malware in the victim’s computer system. They encrypt their data. The attackers demand ransom to unlock the data. They usually take payment in cryptocurrency.

Online Fraud

It involves deceiving people over the Internet to steal money. It is usually done through fake online stores, investment scams, or counterfeit products. Victims may lose significant amounts of money to fraudsters. They disappear once the scam is complete.

Child Exploitation

Such crimes use the Internet to exploit children. It includes child pornography and grooming minors for sexual exploitation. Some also use it to traffick children.

Cyberstalking

It uses the Internet to track, harass, or intimidate individuals. It often includes sending threatening messages. Some cyberstalkers also monitor an individual’s online activities by hacking into their accounts.

Why Should You Report a Cyber Crime?

Cyber fraud can affect anyone. If you have been a victim of any kind of cyber attack, you must register it. By doing so, you can prevent them from striking others in future :

  1. It helps law enforcement agencies identify and track cybercriminals. It can prevent future crimes.
  2. You contribute to a safer online environment for others.
  3. You can recover any financial or personal loss by filing a complaint. Reporting initiates legal actions against the perpetrators.

If you ignore reporting, it may allow criminals to continue their activities. They can cause more harm to others. You can stop their illegal activities by standing up and reporting.

How to File a Cyber Crime Complaint Online in India

Prevention of Cyber Crime
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You can give a cyber crime report in India. The government has designed an online website to simplify the process. This portal ensures that individuals can report crimes quickly and efficiently.

Follow the below-mentioned steps to file a cyber crime online complaint.

  1. Go to the official portal at cyber crime.gov.in. It accepts cyber crime complaints related to women and children. It also accepts other general complaints.
  2. Now, choose the category from the following two options. 
  3. Crimes against women and children
  4. Other types of cyber crimes.
  5. You can file a complaint anonymously. It means you can report the crime without disclosing your identity. It is beneficial for sensitive cases.
  6. If you are not filing anonymously, you must register on the portal using your details.
  7. After registering, complete the form with accurate and relevant details of cyber crime.
  8. Upload all supporting documents, such as screenshots and emails. You can also add other relevant evidence.
  9. After completing the form and attaching the necessary evidence, submit the complaint. You will receive a tracking number. 

You can track the progress of your complaint by checking its status using the tracking number.

Information Required to File Complaint

You must have the following data to file the cyber crime online complaint

  • Personal Details: Provide your full name with address and phone number. Also, provide your email address if you are not filing the complaint anonymously.
  • Incident Details: Give a detailed description of the cyber crime. Include important information like date and time. Also, mention the nature of the incident.
  • Evidence: Give any relevant digital evidence you have. It can be emails or screenshots. You can also provide bank statements or other documents that support your complaint.
  • Suspect Information (if available): Share all your information regarding the perpetrator. It can be their email address or phone number. Give links to their social media profiles if you have them.

Try to provide precise and comprehensive information. It will help the law enforcement agencies to resolve your case.

Conclusion

Cyber Crime increased with the growing dependence on digital technologies. You can minimise the damage by understanding the nature of fraud. You must protect yourself by taking appropriate measures. Moreover, you must report it through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. It is an easily accessible and efficient process. It ensures proper investigation of your case. By reporting cyber crimes, you seek justice for yourself. It also helps prevent future crimes. Thus, it contributes to a safer online space for everyone.

Cyber Crimes like cyberbullying have experienced a drastic increase ever since the rise of social media. That makes us question whether social media is even good for us. Learn the advantages and disadvantages of social media here!

FAQs

Can I file a cyber crime online complaint in India?

Yes, you can do so by visiting the National Cyber Crime Portal.

Does cyber crime refund money in India?

Banks update the details on the National cyber crime Reporting Portal. However, if the duped amount is less than Rs 50,000, the banks can refund it without a court order. They can do so only if they find it fraudulent.

What is the punishment for cyber complaints in India?

According to Section 504 IPC and 506, the criminal can be imprisoned for two years, fined, or both. However, if a threat causes death or hurts grievously, they can be imprisoned for seven years or fined heavily.

How can I contact the Indian cyber crime police?

The cyber crime complaint number is 1930. It is the national helpline number where you can register your complaint.

Who handles cyber crime in India?

The Ministry of Home Affairs overlooks the complaints. They have established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre handle it.

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