India reports over 1.5 million cybercrime cases annually. If you’ve been a victim of online fraud, UPI scam, or cybercrime, filing a timely complaint is crucial to getting your money back and freezing the fraudster’s account. This guide walks you through every step.
Why You Must Report Cybercrime Immediately
Time is critical in cybercrime cases. Banks can freeze fraudulent accounts and sometimes recover funds if you report within 24–48 hours. The I4C (Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre) coordinates with banks to freeze accounts connected to reported fraud complaints within hours.
Step 1: Call the National Cybercrime Helpline — 1930
The 1930 Cybercrime Helpline operates 24×7 and is the fastest way to initiate action. When you call:
- Provide your name, mobile number, and account details
- Describe the fraud and amount lost
- Get a complaint reference number
Step 2: File Online at cybercrime.gov.in
- Visit cybercrime.gov.in
- Click “Report Cybercrime” → “File a Complaint”
- Select the category: Financial Fraud / UPI Fraud / Online Cheating
- Fill in your personal details and incident details
- Upload supporting documents (screenshots, transaction IDs)
- Submit and note your complaint ID (format: XXXX/XX/XXXXXXXX)
Step 3: File an FIR at Local Police Station
For amounts above ₹1 lakh, also file an FIR at your nearest police station. The police must register the FIR under:
- Section 420 IPC (Cheating)
- Section 66C/66D IT Act (Identity theft / Cheating by personation)
- Section 419 IPC (Impersonation)
Documents to Keep Ready
- Screenshots of fraud communication (WhatsApp, SMS, email)
- UPI transaction ID / Bank transaction reference
- Fraudster’s phone number, account number, or UPI ID
- Copy of Aadhaar and PAN
- Bank statement showing the fraudulent transaction
What Happens After You File a Complaint?
Once your complaint is registered on cybercrime.gov.in:
- The fraud account is flagged and often frozen within hours
- Your bank is notified to put a hold on the recipient account
- A cyber cell officer is assigned to investigate
- If funds are still available in the fraud account, refund is initiated
⚠️ Beware of Fake “Cyber Helpers”
Never pay money to anyone who claims they can get your money back or unfreeze your account for a fee. All official assistance through the government cybercrime portal and AssistPortal is free of charge.
Track Your Complaint Status
Track your complaint at assistportal.services using your CFAP Complaint ID or on cybercrime.gov.in using your complaint reference number.
Visit AssistPortal for assistance.