A Comprehensive Guide To Filing A Complaint With The Cyber Cell

With the constant advancement in the field of technology, smartphones and laptops have become an integral part of our lives. It has evolved into a new way of communication, shopping, and transacting. Technologies have made our lives more convenient and efficient, but they have also introduced new challenges and raised serious concerns about their impact on society. Digital crimes have become very common. And if you do not know how to deal with them, you are vulnerable to severe loss. The following article will shed light on how to report a cybercrime. 
 

What is cybercrime?

 
Cybercrime refers to criminal activities that are committed using the internet or other forms of digital communication technology. This can include activities such as hacking, identity theft, online fraud, and the distribution of malware. Cybercrime can have severe consequences for individuals and organisations. It is an ongoing concern for governments and law enforcement agencies across the globe.
 

What are the different types of cybercrimes in India?

 
In India, cybercrime encompasses a wide range of criminal activities. Some of the most common types of cybercrime include the following-
 

• Hacking: Hacking involves unauthorised access to a computer system or network. Fraudsters commit this crime for several reasons, such as stealing sensitive information, disrupting operations, or causing damage to the system.
• Phishing: Phishing is a type of online fraud where criminals send emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate sources, such as banks or other financial institutions. These messages ask for personal information, such as login credentials or credit card numbers, which the scammers then use for identity theft.
• Identity theft: Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information, such as your name, insurance details, or credit card number, to commit fraud or other crimes. This can have serious consequences for the victim, who may have their credit score damaged or face legal problems as a result.
• Online fraud: Online fraud can take many forms, such as pyramid schemes, fake online marketplaces, and romance scams. These schemes use the anonymity of the internet to trick people into giving away their money or personal information.
• Cyberstalking: Cyberstalking is the use of digital technologies to harass or threaten someone. This can include sending unwanted emails or messages, creating fake social media accounts to impersonate the victim, or posting private information online.
• Distribution of malware: Malware is malicious software that can cause harm to a computer or network, such as by stealing personal information, encrypting files, or disrupting operations. Criminals can use malware to gain unauthorised access to a computer or network or to steal sensitive information.
• Ransomware: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a computer or network and demands a ransom to be paid to restore access to the files. It can cause severe damage to an individual or organization.

 
The list above is not exhaustive, as new forms of cybercrime are constantly emerging. You need to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect yourself and your information.
 

How to submit a cybercrime online complaint? 

 

• Click on the following link to visit Cyber Crime Portal.
• Read the terms and conditions displayed on your screen and tick the accept checkbox.
• Navigate to the 'Report other cybercrime’ section. 
• Tap on the ‘citizen login’ section and share the required details. 
• Input the OTP you received on your contact number or email address, enter the captcha code and tap on the submit. 
• Now, on the following page, fill out the online form. The form is divided into four sections. Check that you are not missing any mandatory requirements and that you are previewing before final submission. 
• When you submit the form, you will be directed to a page where you must fill out the entire details of the fraudulent incident. Next, tap on ‘Save and Next.'
• The new page that appears will request information about the suspect. If you do not have this information, skip this section and click the submit button.

 

Points to consider when raising offline Cyber Crime complaint

 

• Make a written complaint to any cybercrime cell in India. Because the IT Act states that this department is subject to global jurisdiction, there is no need to worry about reporting it in an area where you have been duped.
• Submit your complaint to the cybercrime cell head. The addresser and addressee's information, such as contact details, name, and address, must be clearly specified.
• You may also reach out to the cybercrime cell by calling on their dedicated complaint number between 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• If you are having difficulty locating the cybercrime cell, you can file an FIR at your local police station. If the police do not accept your complaint, contact your city's Judicial Magistrate or Commissioner.

 
Also Read: Why Clicking on Suspicious Links Can be the Biggest Mistake of Your Life?
 

What are the documents necessary to lodge a cyber cell complaint?

 
The documentation requirements differ depending on the type of fraud you have suffered. Let's go through each type of fraud one by one.
 

1. Data Theft Fraud

   • Documents informing of the stolen data, as well as a copyright certificate for the same.
   • Detailed information on the employee you believe was involved in the fraud.
   • NDA and appointment letter of the alleged employee. 



2. Email Fraud

   • A formal complaint copy detailing the entire incident.
   • Print out a copy of the scammer's fraudulent email.
   • Print and digital copies of the scammers' trail emails.
   • A copy of the email header you believe the scammer sent.



3. Banking-related financial scams

   • Last six months' transaction details for the account where the fraud occurred.
   • Make sure to use different colours to highlight the fraudulent transactions.
   • If you have been duped through phishing emails or SMS, a copy of the same is required. 
   • Copy of identity and address proof; this should be the same as mentioned in your bank account statement. 

 

What are some tips to avoid cyber scams?

 

• Unique passwords

  Avoid using easily guessable passwords, such as "password" or "1234," and use a different password for each account. Use a combination of special characters, numbers, and letters to create your login credentials more secure.
   

• Update software

  Cybercriminals often target vulnerabilities in outdated software and operating systems. Regularly update your software and operating systems to protect yourself from these cyber-attacks.
   

• Use antivirus

  Anti-malware software can help protect your computer from malware, viruses, and other malicious sites. Use the premium version of such software while keeping it updated and running regular scans to detect and remove any threats.
   

• Avoid suspicious links

  Be wary of any emails or links you receive from unknown sources, especially if they ask for personal information or direct you to a website you do not recognise.
   

• Use a VPN

  VPN or Virtual Private Network is a technology that allows you to create a secure connection to another network over the internet. It encrypts your internet connection and helps to protect your data from being intercepted by cybercriminals. It also allows you to access the internet and resources as if you were connected to the local network. It is commonly used for remote access, secure browsing, and protecting privacy.
   

• Social engineering tactics

  Cybercriminals often use social engineering tactics to trick people into giving away personal information or money. Be aware of these tricks, and don't fall for them.
   

• Back up data

  Back up important files, such as documents, photos, and videos, regularly. In case your computer is infected with malware or ransomware, you can restore your files from the backup.
   

• Educate your employees

  If you are a business owner, organize regular training sessions for employees to help them identify cyber threats and how to protect themselves, their devices and your company's network and data.
   

Also Read: 6 Ways to Spot a Loan Scam
 

Final Words

 
By following a comprehensive guide, such as the one outlined in this article, you can ensure that your complaint is duly filed and that the Cyber Cell can take appropriate action. Remember to collect all relevant information, identify the type of complaint, contact the Cyber Cell, provide all required information, keep a record, and follow up on your complaint. It is also vital to always keep your personal and financial information safe, avoid sharing any sensitive information online and keep your computer and mobile device updated with the latest security software.