How to File a Cyber Crime Complaint Online in India: Step-by-Step Guide 2026

If you have been a victim of cyber crime in India, including online financial fraud, identity theft, phishing, hacking, or online harassment, you can file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in), which is operated by the Ministry of Home Affairs. This guide covers the complete process of filing a cyber crime complaint online, the documents you will need, the relevant legal provisions under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and what to expect after filing.

Step 1: For Financial Fraud, Call 1930 Immediately

If you have lost money to an online fraud, your first step should be to call the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 within the first hour. This toll-free helpline operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call, the operators can flag the fraudulent transaction with the receiving bank under the RBI's framework, which gives you the best chance of getting the funds frozen before they are withdrawn. Time is critical: the sooner you report, the higher the chances of recovery.

Step 2: Register on the Portal and File a Complaint

Visit cybercrime.gov.in and click on "File a Complaint." You will need to register using your name and a valid Indian mobile number. An OTP will be sent to your phone, which remains valid for 30 minutes. Once registered, you can file your complaint by providing details of the cyber crime, including the nature of the offence (financial fraud, hacking, identity theft, online harassment, or other categories), the date and time of the incident, details of the accused (if known), and any financial losses suffered. Upload all supporting documents in PDF format (maximum 5MB per file), including screenshots of conversations, transaction records, bank statements showing the fraudulent transaction, and any other relevant evidence.

Step 3: Track Your Complaint

After submission, each complaint receives a unique electronic tracking number. You can use this number to monitor the complaint's status and progress through the portal. The complaint is forwarded to the relevant state or district police for investigation. You may also file a First Information Report (FIR) at your local police station if you prefer, as this can sometimes result in faster local action. The portal also allows anonymous reporting for crimes against women and children.

Key Legal Provisions for Cyber Crimes in India

The primary legislation governing cyber crimes in India is the Information Technology Act, 2000, as amended in 2008. Key provisions include: Section 66 covers computer-related offences and prescribes imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 5 lakh. Section 66C covers identity theft, meaning the fraudulent use of another person's electronic signature, password, or unique identification feature, punishable with imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh. Section 66D covers cheating by personation using computer resources, also punishable with imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh. For financial fraud involving larger amounts, provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (which replaced the Indian Penal Code) relating to cheating and criminal breach of trust may also apply.

Documents You Should Keep Ready

Before filing your complaint, gather the following: screenshots of the fraudulent communication (emails, messages, or social media posts), bank statements showing the disputed transaction, transaction reference numbers or UPI IDs, details of the website or platform where the fraud occurred, any contact details of the accused (phone number, email, social media profile), and a copy of your identity proof. The more evidence you provide, the stronger your case will be.

Key Takeaways

For financial fraud, call 1930 immediately to maximise the chance of fund recovery. File your complaint online at cybercrime.gov.in with all supporting documents. The portal covers all types of cyber crimes including fraud, hacking, identity theft, and harassment. Complaints can be tracked using a unique reference number. Anonymous reporting is available for offences against women and children. The Information Technology Act, 2000, specifically Sections 66, 66C, and 66D, provides the legal framework for prosecution of cyber criminals. Acting quickly and preserving evidence are the two most important steps in any cyber crime case.