How to file a cyber crime complaint after an online scam
The money is gone: a fake link, a caller who sounded official, a "refund" that took money instead of giving it. Many people feel ashamed and wait. Do not wait. With online fraud, the sooner you act, the better the chance the money is stopped before it moves on.
Do these first, now
- Call 1930, the national cyber crime helpline. Reporting fast can get the transaction frozen before the money is withdrawn at the other end. This is the most useful thing you can do in the first hour.
- Report at cybercrime.gov.in, the official portal for online financial fraud. Keep the complaint number it gives you.
- Tell your bank immediately and ask them to freeze or flag the transaction. The faster they act, the better the chances.
- Save everything: screenshots, the number that called, the transaction reference, and the message or link. All of it helps the case.
What not to do
Do not call any "help number" given by the scammer or by the same website. That is often the same trap a second time. Use only 1930 and the official portal above.
When you need a lawyer
Most online fraud recovery runs through the helpline, the portal and your bank. You do not need a lawyer to start. If the amount is large, or it turns into a longer dispute, that is when legal help is worth it.
Not sure whether what happened counts as fraud, or what to do next? Tell Miss Lucy Lite what happened and she will take you through the steps.
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