The first hour matters
If money has been taken from your account through fraud, call the national cybercrime helpline 1930 immediately and inform your bank. Quick reporting gives the best chance of the transaction being flagged and funds being held.
Report online
File a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, cybercrime.gov.in, and note the acknowledgement number. This number is useful for the bank and the police.
Inform your bank in writing
Under the Reserve Bank of India’s customer-liability framework, a customer’s liability for unauthorised electronic transactions caused by a third-party breach can be zero if reported within three working days of being informed. Report promptly and in writing.
Preserve evidence
- Screenshots of messages, links, UPI requests and call logs
- Bank SMS alerts and statements
- Phone numbers, UPI IDs and account details of the fraudster
- Do not delete chats or apps used in the fraud
Police complaint and FIR
A complaint may be lodged with the local police or cyber police station. Offences may arise under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita on cheating and impersonation.
Frequently asked questions
Will I definitely get my money back?
Recovery depends on how quickly the fraud is reported and where the money has moved. It cannot be guaranteed, but early reporting helps.
About the author
Advocate Vivekanand
Founder & Principal Advocate, Vivekanand Law Firm · MA (English), MBA, LL.B., Author. Full profile
This article is general legal information, not legal advice. It does not create an advocate–client relationship. Legal provisions referred to should be verified for your specific situation and the date of the events concerned.
Related practice
Cybercrime and Financial Fraud