How to Get Court Order Under IT Act 66D for Online Fraud in India
Online frauds and cybercrime are rapidly increasing in India. From fake investment platforms, phishing websites, and fraudulent online marketplaces to impersonation scams, victims often lose large sums of money. Fortunately, the Information Technology Act, 2000, specifically Section 66D, provides legal recourse against cheating by impersonation using a computer resource.
This guide explains how to get a court order under IT Act 66D to recover money lost due to online fraud in India.
What is IT Act Section 66D?
Section 66D of the IT Act, 2000 deals with cheating by impersonation using computer resources.
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If someone deceives or impersonates you online to obtain money or property, this section applies.
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The offense is punishable with imprisonment up to 3 years and/or fine up to ₹1 lakh.
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It covers frauds via email, social media, fake websites, UPI/Banking apps, and online transactions.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Court Order Under Section 66D
1. File a Complaint on the National Cyber Crime Portal
Visit https://www.cybercrime.gov.in and register your complaint.
Include the following:
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Full details of the transaction (date, amount, UTR number)
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Bank account or UPI ID of the fraudster
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Screenshots, chat messages, and emails
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URL of any fraudulent website
You will receive an Acknowledgment Number (NCRP ID) for your reference.
2. Lodge an FIR at the Cyber Crime Police Station
After filing your complaint online, visit your nearest Cyber Crime Police Station or local police station.
Provide:
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NCRP Complaint copy
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Bank statements showing the transaction
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Identity proof (Aadhaar/PAN)
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All communication evidence
The police will register an FIR under Section 66D IT Act and Section 420 IPC (Cheating). They may request your bank to freeze the scammer’s account.
3. Notify Your Bank
Immediately inform your bank about the fraud and provide:
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Complaint/FIR acknowledgment
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Payment details
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Request a freeze or lien hold on the transaction, if still possible
Acting within 24–48 hours increases the chances of recovery.
4. File Application in Court (Magistrate or District Court)
If police or bank action is delayed, you can approach the Judicial Magistrate to file an application under:
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Section 156(3) CrPC – Court can direct police investigation
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Section 190 CrPC – Court can take cognizance of the offense
The Court can direct the Cyber Crime Police to expedite investigation, trace the fraudster, and recover the defrauded amount.
5. Petition for Court Order to Recover Money
Once the investigation confirms that money was fraudulently taken:
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You can file a petition in court to request a refund of the lost amount
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The court will verify your proof and can order the bank or scammer to return the money to the victim
6. Role of a Cyber Crime Lawyer
Engaging a qualified cyber crime lawyer ensures:
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Proper drafting of petitions
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Representation before the court and police
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Coordination with banks and investigating officers
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Faster issuance of court order for refund
Documents Required
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FIR / Cyber Crime Complaint Acknowledgment
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Bank statements and transaction proof
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Identity proof (Aadhaar/PAN)
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Screenshots of chats, emails, or social media communication
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Legal notice (if sent) or court petition
Timeframe for Recovery
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Initial Police Investigation: 15–30 days
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Account Freezing / Verification: 30–60 days
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Court Order and Refund: 60–90 days (depending on case complexity)
Key Legal Provisions
| Law | Section | Description |
|---|---|---|
| IT Act | 66D | Cheating by impersonation using computer resources |
| IPC | 420 | Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property |
| CrPC | 156(3) | Magistrate’s power to direct police investigation |
| CrPC | 190 | Court can take cognizance of offenses |
Tips for Victims
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Report the fraud immediately after detection
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Preserve all evidence (chats, emails, payment proofs)
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Do not share OTPs, passwords, or banking details
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Engage a cyber crime lawyer to ensure smooth legal recovery
A court order under IT Act 66D is a powerful legal tool to recover money lost due to online fraud in India. By filing a complaint, involving the cyber police, and petitioning the court, victims can get their defrauded money refunded legally. Immediate action and proper documentation significantly increase the chances of recovery.
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