What to do after digital financial loss?
Method of operating of Cybercriminals

Cybercriminals commonly operate through deceptive tactics. Here is how they trap victims:

1. Contact Channels:

o   WhatsApp groups or unknown links

o   Social media (Facebook, Telegram, Instagram)

o   Phishing emails or text messages

2. False Promises:

o   Claim to double/triple your money instantly

o   Offer fake online investments or jobs

3. Fake Legitimacy:

o   Use forged identities, websites, and logos

o   Impersonate reputed companies or stockbrokers

4.       Giving Fake sites as Real

o   Look for spelling mistakes, extra words, or strange characters.

o   Check the URL Carefully

o   See if the site has a valid contact number, email, or office address.

o   Check for genuine reviews or search the website name + "scam" on Google.

 Keep this Handy Process given below

1. File an Initial Complaint

·   Call: Cybercrime Helpline 1930

·   Online: Visit cybercrime.gov.in

2. Prepare These Details

·   UTR/transaction reference numbers

·   Bank account and the fraudster’s account details

·   Screenshots, mobile numbers, and photos of chats/websites

3. Submit Complaint Online

·   Register/Login on portal

·   Choose "Financial Fraud" category

·   Fill in complete incident details and upload evidence

·   Submit and note down the Acknowledgement Number

4. After Submission

·   Expect updates via SMS/Email within 24–72 hours

·   Expect receive details of the Investigation Officer (IO)

·   Contact the IO and inform about held/frozen funds

5. Challenges during Investigation

·   IOs often email banks for fund recovery

·   Responses from banks are delayed or absent

·   This results in prolonged or failed recovery attempts

Court Procedure to Recover Lost Money

1. Approach the Court

·   Visit the Session Court or Cyber Court in your area

·   No lawyer is required for the initial application

2. Required Documents

·   Application with complaint ID, amount, and bank details

·   Printed complaint and status from the cybercrime portal

3. Filing Process

·   Submit application at the Court registry

·   Get hearing date (usually within 1–3 days)

·   Appear before the judge and present your case

4. Post-Hearing Actions

·   Court issues a notice to the IO

·   IO submits a report in 30–40 days

·   If favourable, the Court orders banks to release funds

·   Victim submits an Indemnity Bond (₹100 stamp paper)

·   IO forwards the Court order to concerned banks

·   Money may be refunded within 90 days

5. Do not be afraid of urgency

·       Remember any genuine court & government organisation will not issue a notice to asking to take immediate action.

·       Do not panic, response or share your personal information.

·       The government system work through a legal notice.

·       Hence do not believe any message to do anything within one or two hours.

 Key Safety Advice

 Stay Alert:
Never trust schemes promising fast, high returns

 Avoid Unverified Sources:
Don’t click on unknown links or join suspicious groups

 In Case of Fraud:
Act quickly and don’t hesitate to report