Cyber frauds in India are rising at a rapid pace — from UPI scams, phishing links, fake investment apps, online gaming frauds, and crypto P2P trades to credit card misuse. Victims often lose their hard-earned money within seconds and feel helpless. But the truth is: if you act quickly and follow the right legal process, there is a real chance to recover the stolen money.
This blog explains in detail how to report cyber fraud in India and the process to get your money back.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Note Down the Fraud Details
The first reaction to online fraud is panic. But your calm and quick action will decide if the money can be recovered. Immediately note:
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Date and time of the fraudulent transaction.
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Amount lost.
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Bank/UPI ID or wallet details where money was sent.
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Screenshots of chats, calls, or links.
Step 2: Call the Cyber Helpline Number – 1930
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Dial 1930, the National Cybercrime Helpline.
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Provide all details of the fraud transaction.
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The call center will forward the complaint to your bank and the fraudster’s bank for transaction hold (lien).
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If done within hours, money can be frozen before withdrawal.
Step 3: File a Complaint on the Cybercrime Portal
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Visit cybercrime.gov.in (official government portal).
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Click on Report Financial Fraud.
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Enter details of fraud, including transaction ID, UPI ID, and bank details.
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Upload supporting documents (screenshots, call recordings, statements).
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Submit and note the acknowledgment number for tracking.
Step 4: Inform Your Bank Immediately
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Contact your bank’s fraud department or branch manager.
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Share the complaint acknowledgment number from 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in.
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Request an urgent reversal or freezing of the recipient’s account.
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Submit a written application with proof.
Step 5: File a Written Complaint with Cyber Police
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Draft a complaint addressed to the SHO / IO (Investigating Officer) of your nearest cyber police station.
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Mention:
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How the fraud occurred.
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Transaction details.
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Evidence (screenshots, emails, bank statement).
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Attach ID proof (Aadhar, PAN, Address proof).
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Ask for registration of an FIR if the amount is large.
Step 6: Legal Remedies for Money Recovery
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IPC Sections:
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420 IPC – Cheating.
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406 IPC – Criminal breach of trust.
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384 IPC – Extortion.
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IT Act Sections:
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66C – Identity theft.
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66D – Cheating by impersonation.
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Banking Ombudsman: File a complaint if the bank fails to act.
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Consumer Court: In case of e-commerce scams.
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High Court Writ Petition: For urgent relief and unfreezing of accounts in large fraud cases.
Step 7: How a Cybercrime Advocate Can Help
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Drafting representation letters to police and banks.
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Filing petitions in High Court to unfreeze accounts.
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Coordinating with multiple banks for fund recovery.
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Providing legal representation if the fraudsters are caught.
Safety Tips to Avoid Cyber Fraud
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Never share OTP, UPI PIN, or bank login details.
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Avoid clicking on suspicious links or investment ads.
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Verify any caller claiming to be from bank or government.
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Enable SMS/email alerts for every transaction.
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Use only verified apps and payment platforms.
Cyber fraud can happen to anyone, but the speed of reporting is the key to recovery. By calling 1930, filing a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in, and informing your bank immediately, you increase the chances of getting your money back. For complex or large frauds, taking help from an experienced cybercrime advocate ensures stronger legal action and recovery.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational and awareness purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, professional consultation, or solicitation. Victims of cybercrime should immediately call the 1930 helpline, file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in, and consult a certified cybercrime advocate for case-specific guidance.