How to File Cyber Crime Complaint Online in India – Step-by-Step Guide

In an increasingly digitized world, India has witnessed a substantial surge in cyber-related offences. These crimes range from identity theft, phishing attacks, online financial frauds, and social media blackmail to cyberstalking and child exploitation. As more people integrate digital platforms into their daily lives, the need for a secure online environment becomes imperative. Recognizing this, the Government of India has developed a robust and accessible mechanism for victims to file a cyber crime complaint online efficiently through the official portal cybercrime.gov.in.

This guide will equip you with all the essential information on how to file a cyber crime complaint online in India, provide clarity on the categories of cyber offences, documentation required, portal usage, and best practices to ensure a swift and effective response from law enforcement authorities.

File Cyber Crimes Online in India

Cybercrime encompasses any illegal activity conducted through digital means—such as the internet, computer systems, or mobile devices. In India, cyber offences are dealt with under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Common cybercrimes include:

• Financial frauds involving online banking, UPI transactions, and e-commerce scams

• Phishing and spoofing attacks through fake emails and websites

• Cyberbullying and online harassment, including revenge pornography and blackmail

• Identity theft and data breaches, where personal or financial data is misused

• Hacking and ransomware targeting individuals and businesses

• Distribution of explicit content, particularly involving children

The national cybercrime reporting portal, cybercrime.gov.in, is a centralized and secure platform to address these offences.

Importance to File Cyber Crime Online in India

Cybercrimes are often time-sensitive. The quicker a victim reports an incident, the better the chances of identifying and apprehending the offender. Especially in cases involving financial fraud or unauthorized transactions, immediate reporting increases the likelihood of freezing or recovering the stolen funds.

It is crucial to report cyber offences not only to protect oneself but also to prevent the perpetrator from targeting others.

Who Can File a Cyber Crime Complaint Online?

Any individual residing in India, regardless of age or gender, can file a cybercrime complaint online. Importantly, the portal also allows third-party reporting, which means you can file a complaint on behalf of someone else, such as a minor or an individual facing threats. Additionally, victims of crimes related to women and children are provided the option to report anonymously to ensure privacy and safety.

Documentation and Information Required Before Filing a Complaint

To file a cyber crime complaint effectively, it is essential to gather and organize all relevant information and supporting evidence. While the documentation may vary depending on the nature of the offence, the following are commonly required:

• Personal identification details such as full name, address, mobile number, and email ID

• Detailed description of the incident, including date, time, and platform used

• Screenshots or digital proof such as emails, chat transcripts, social media links, transaction records, or malicious links

• Device details including IP addresses, phone numbers, or user handles of suspected perpetrators

• Bank account and transaction details, especially in financial fraud cases (including UTR numbers, account statements, and screenshots of transactions)

The more accurate and comprehensive your submission, the easier it will be for authorities to investigate and act on your complaint.

Filing a Cyber Crime Complaint Online: A Step-by-Step Process

The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal has been developed by the Government of India to provide a user-friendly and streamlined complaint mechanism. Below is a detailed explanation of how to lodge a complaint via cybercrime.gov.in:

Step 1: Access the Portal

Visit https://cybercrime.gov.in, which is the Government of India’s official cybercrime reporting platform.

Step 2: Choose the Type of Complaint

On the homepage, click “File a Complaint” and choose between two broad categories:

• Report Crime Related to Women/Children (offers an anonymous option)

• Report Other Cyber Crimes (requires basic registration)

Step 3: Accept Terms and Register

After selecting the appropriate category, read the terms and conditions and proceed by clicking “I Accept.” First-time users will need to register with their mobile number, verify via OTP, and complete a short profile with personal details.

Step 4: Submit Complaint Details

Once logged in, you will be guided through a form requesting the following:

• Type of cybercrime (e.g., hacking, identity theft, UPI fraud, stalking)

• Date and time of occurrence

• Incident location and description

• Details of the suspect, if known

• Uploading of evidence and documentation (up to specified file size and format)

Ensure accuracy and clarity when entering data. Providing complete and factual information is key to swift action.

Step 5: Submit and Note Complaint ID

After submission, you will receive a unique complaint reference number (CRN). This ID can be used for tracking and follow-up.

The complaint is then forwarded to the relevant state police cybercrime unit for investigation and resolution.

How to File Cyber Crime Compliant Online

If you are a victim of an online financial fraud—such as UPI fraud, credit/debit card scams, or e-wallet hacking—it is critical to act swiftly.

Immediate actions include:

• Calling the national helpline number 1930, which operates 24/7 for financial fraud complaints.

• Notifying your bank to freeze the affected account.

• Filing a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in under the “Report Other Cyber Crimes” section.

Be prepared to provide transaction IDs, UTR numbers, screenshots of messages or emails, and relevant bank statements. The sooner you lodge your complaint, the higher the probability of reversing or recovering the lost amount.

Tracking the Status of a Cyber Crime Complaint

After submitting your complaint online, it is possible to monitor the status and receive updates through the portal. Here’s how:

• Visit the homepage of cybercrime.gov.in

• Click on “Check Status”

• Enter your complaint reference number and registered mobile number

You will receive real-time updates on the progress, police action, and resolution timeline. Additionally, you may be contacted by the local cyber police unit for further clarification or investigation.

Offline Options: File Cyber Crimes complaint in Person

While the online portal is the preferred and most efficient method, cybercrime complaints can also be filed offline, particularly in complex or high-severity cases. You can do so by:

• Visiting your nearest Cyber Crime Police Station or the District Cyber Cell

• Carrying a written complaint detailing the incident

• Attaching all relevant evidence (printouts, pen drives, screenshots)

• Carrying a copy of your government-issued ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)

Some states have dedicated cybercrime units that operate independently or in conjunction with local police. In cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi, the infrastructure is well-established for handling such cases effectively.

Best Practices for Faster Redressal and Prevention

To enhance the chances of a prompt and effective resolution, the following best practices are recommended:

• Report immediately – Delays reduce the chances of successful intervention

• Preserve all digital evidence in original format (avoid cropping screenshots or altering metadata)

• Be accurate and concise in describing the incident

• Maintain communication with the investigating officer

• Update your digital security – Change passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and scan devices for malware

Being proactive is key—not just in reporting, but in preventing future incidents.

Final Thoughts

The rapid evolution of cyber threats demands equally prompt and informed responses. Whether you are dealing with a case of online fraud, cyber harassment, or data compromise, it is imperative to know how to file a cyber crime complaint online in India. The launch of cybercrime.gov.in by the Ministry of Home Affairs is a significant step toward empowering citizens and enhancing digital security.

This professionally structured cybercrime.gov.in guide aims to simplify the reporting process and encourages every digital user to take charge of their online safety. If you or someone you know has been affected, do not delay. Act swiftly, document thoroughly, and report responsibly.

When you report scam online India, you not only protect yourself but contribute to building a safer digital environment for everyone.