In today’s digital age, online scams and cyber frauds are increasing rapidly. Thousands of people fall victim to fake investment platforms, phishing links, fraudulent job offers, and fake e-commerce websites every month. If you are one of those who lost money to an online scam, don’t worry — you can legally recover your money through a cyber crime court order.
This guide explains how to take a court order for refund of online scam money and the legal process to get justice.
Step-by-Step Process to Get Court Order for Refund
1. File a Complaint on the National Cyber Crime Portal
Go to www.cybercrime.gov.in and register your complaint with full details:
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Transaction date and amount
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Bank account details (sender and receiver)
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Screenshots, chat proofs, and payment receipts
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Scam link or website
After filing, you’ll receive an Acknowledgment Number or NCRP Complaint Number — keep this safe for future reference.
2. Approach the Nearest Cyber Crime Police Station
Visit your nearest Cyber Crime Police Station or local police station with your documents:
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FIR copy or NCRP acknowledgment
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Bank statement showing the transaction
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ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN)
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Written complaint describing the incident
The Investigating Officer (IO) can request the bank to freeze the scammer’s account under the IT Act, Section 66D and IPC Section 420.
3. File an Application Under Section 156(3) CrPC or 190 CrPC
If the police are not taking prompt action or investigation is delayed, you can approach the Magistrate Court and file an application under:
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Section 156(3) CrPC – for direction to the police to investigate
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Section 190 CrPC – for taking cognizance of the offence
The Court may issue an order to the concerned Cyber Cell or bank to expedite the refund and investigation process.
4. Seek a Court Order to Unfreeze and Refund Money
Once the scammer’s account is frozen, you can file a petition before the Judicial Magistrate or District Court requesting a refund order.
The process includes:
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Submitting all bank records and FIR proof
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Showing that you are the rightful owner of the lost funds
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Requesting the release of the recovered money from the frozen account
The court then directs the bank to refund the money to the victim after verifying documents and completion of investigation.
5. Engage a Cyber Crime Lawyer
Having an experienced Cyber Crime Lawyer can speed up your case. The lawyer will:
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Draft your legal petition
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Represent you before the Magistrate or Cyber Court
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Coordinate with the investigating officer and banks
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File applications for refund and release of funds
Important Legal Provisions
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Section 66D of the IT Act, 2000 – Punishment for cheating by impersonation using computer resources.
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Section 420 of IPC – Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property.
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Section 156(3) CrPC – Court’s power to direct investigation.
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Section 451 & 457 CrPC – Custody and disposal of property during and after investigation.
Documents Required
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FIR or Cyber Crime Acknowledgment
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Bank statement and payment proof
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Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN)
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Communication/chat proof (WhatsApp, email, etc.)
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Written petition or affidavit
How Long Does It Take?
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Initial investigation: 15–30 days
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Account freezing and verification: 30–60 days
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Court order and refund process: 60–90 days (depending on jurisdiction and case complexity)
Expert Tips from Cyber Crime Lawyers
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File the complaint within 24 hours of the fraud.
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Don’t delete messages, chats, or transaction history.
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Keep all communication screenshots as evidence.
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Contact your bank’s fraud department immediately to request reversal or lien hold.
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Never share OTPs, banking passwords, or KYC documents over calls.
Getting a cyber crime court order for refund of online scam money is a legal and effective way to recover your hard-earned funds. The process involves coordination between you, the police, the bank, and the court — and having a skilled cyber crime advocate makes it smoother and faster.
If you have been scammed online, act immediately. Report the fraud, preserve the evidence, and seek legal help without delay.
Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult a qualified cybercrime lawyer for your specific case.
For reporting cybercrime, visit www.cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.