Cyber Crime Awareness in India: Know Your Rights & How to Take Action

Posted by Adv. Kadambari Deokare on 2025-10-30 18:30:00

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Cyber Crime Awareness in India: Know Your Rights & How to Take Action

In today’s digital world, our phones and laptops are practically extensions of ourselves. From online shopping and transferring money with a click, store personal memories in the cloud, and share every moment on social media and work, we’re constantly connected. But this digital convenience also comes with a dark side — cyber crime.

From phishing scams and identity theft to cyberstalking and financial frauds, cyber criminals are constantly finding new ways to exploit technology. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), cyber crime cases in India have increased by over 24% in recent years, affecting individuals and businesses alike.

Let’s break it down step-by-step so you know exactly what to do if you ever face or witness a cyber crime.

What Is Cyber Crime?

In simple terms, cyber crime refers to any illegal activity that involves a computer, smartphone, or network. The intent can vary from stealing data and money to defaming someone or invading their privacy.

Cyber crimes can target individuals, companies, or even government systems. The motive might be personal revenge, financial gain, blackmail, or political manipulation.

Common Types of Cyber Crimes in India:

1. Hacking – Unauthorized access to systems, emails, or social media accounts.
2. Phishing & Online Frauds – Fake emails or links that steal your data or money.
3. Identity Theft – Using someone’s personal information for fraudulent activities.
4. Cyberstalking & Harassment – Sending obscene messages, threats, or tracking someone online.
5. Cyberbullying – Online humiliation, trolling, or abuse — often affecting teenagers.
6. Financial Frauds – UPI scams, credit card frauds, fake e-commerce sites.
7. Data Breaches – Leakage of confidential information by hacking into databases.
8. Revenge Porn & Morphing – Misuse of personal or intimate photos without consent.
9. Online Defamation – Spreading false information to harm someone’s reputation.
10. Ransomware Attacks – Locking data or systems until a ransom is paid.

Laws Governing Cyber Crimes in India

India’s cyber laws have evolved to protect citizens and businesses from these threats. The Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 is the backbone of India’s cyber legal framework, supported by relevant sections of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

1. Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 and its Amendments

The IT Act defines, regulates, and punishes cyber offences. Key sections include:

2. Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)

Cyber crimes often overlap with traditional crimes, so the BNS also applies:

Step-by-Step Guide: How to File a Cyber Crime Complaint in India

Many victims hesitate to report cyber crimes because they don’t know where to start. But filing a complaint is simple and accessible — both online and offline. Let’s walk through it step-by-step :-

Step 1: Collect Evidence

Before you file a complaint, gather all possible evidence, such as:

• Screenshots of messages, emails, or posts
• Chat logs or transaction records
• URLs or website links
• Phone numbers, email IDs involved
• If you received suspicious calls, note the number, date, and time
• For financial frauds, keep bank statements or payment receipts

Tip: Don’t delete anything, even if it’s disturbing. It might be crucial proof.

Step 2: File an Online Complaint (Easiest Way)

Visit the official portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in  (National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal)

Choose:

• “Report Women/Child Related Crime” – for harassment, stalking, or intimate content.
• “Report Other Cyber Crime” – for fraud, hacking, etc.

You can file the complaint anonymously, and it will be directed to your nearest cyber police station.

Step 3: Report to the Nearest Cyber Crime Police Station

If you prefer to go in person, visit your local cyber crime police station (every city and most districts have one).

Carry:

• A written complaint letter
• ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, etc.)
• Evidence (screenshots, printouts, chat logs, etc.)

Note: You can file a complaint at any cyber police station in India — jurisdiction doesn’t restrict cyber cases.

Step 4: FIR Registration (If Required)

For serious offences (like financial fraud, harassment, or data theft), police may register an FIR (First Information Report) under the relevant sections of the IT Act and BNS.

If the officer refuses to register it, you can approach the Superintendent of Police (SP) or file a written complaint before a Judicial Magistrate under Section 175(3) BNSS

Step 5: Case Investigation and Trial in Court

Once the FIR is registered, the cyber crime investigation unit starts collecting digital evidence and tracing IPs.

• The Adjudicating Officer (AO) or Special Cyber Court handles civil offences (like data breaches or compensation claims).
• Judicial Magistrate Courts or Sessions Courts handle criminal cyber offences.

The case proceeds like a regular criminal trial — with evidence, witnesses, and final judgment.

Case Example:

A 27-year-old woman from Pune discovered her morphed pictures being circulated online. She filed a complaint through cybercrime.gov.in, attached screenshots, and followed up with her local cyber police station.

Within weeks, the cyber cell tracked the IP address of the offender, who was arrested under Sections 66E and 67A of the IT Act and Section 79 BNS.

Landmark Cases:

• State of Tamil Nadu vs Suhas Katti

In the 2004 case of State of Tamil Nadu v. Suhas Katti, the Madras High Court convicted Suhas Katti for cyber harassment, marking it as the first conviction under India's Information Technology Act, 2000. He was sentenced to two years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine for posting obscene messages about a woman on a Yahoo! group. He was also convicted under sections 469 and 509 of the Indian Penal Code for defamation and outraging modesty.

• SMC Pneumatics (India) Pvt Ltd vs Jogesh Kwatra

This case gave birth to a new term ‘cyber defamation’ in the Indian law as it was the first case of cyber defamation in India, so it holds a lot of significance. New angles were explored under this case which was never explored before in any Indian court. This case acts as a base for cyber defamation in India.

Tips to Stay Cyber-Safe Every Day

• Use strong passwords — at least 12 characters with symbols and numbers.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all social and banking apps.
• Never share OTPs or passwords, even with “official” callers.
• Update your devices and antivirus software regularly.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking or payments.
• Be cautious of unknown links — if it looks suspicious, it probably is.
• Educate children and elders about online safety and scams.
• Regularly review your privacy settings on social media.
• Report fake profiles or abusive content immediately.
• Backup important data securely on encrypted drives.

Additional Helplines & Support

• Cyber Crime Helpline (24x7): 1930
• National Women Helpline: 1091
• National Commission for Women (NCW): ncwapps.nic.in

Tips to Stay Cyber-Safe

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
• Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments.
• Regularly update your devices and antivirus software.
• Be cautious while sharing personal data online.
• Report fake social media profiles immediately.

Cyber crimes are no longer “virtual” - they have real-life emotional, financial, and psychological impacts. The key is awareness and prompt action.

Remember: “Being alert online is the new self-defense.”

If you or someone you know becomes a victim of cyber crime  don’t stay silent. Report it. The law is on your side.

The Road Ahead: Building a Cyber-Safe India

As India’s digital economy expands, so does the responsibility of its citizens. Cyber security isn’t just a technical issue — it’s a matter of awareness, vigilance, and action. The more informed we are, the harder it becomes for cyber criminals to succeed.

So, the next time you face an online threat, don’t panic - act. Report it, preserve evidence, and let the system work for you.

Because justice in the digital world begins with awareness in the real one!