What to Do If You Become a Victim of Online Fraud?

Online fraud can happen in many ways, such as through fake websites, UPI scams, phishing links, fraudulent calls, fake investment schemes, or social media scams.If you are a victim, acting quickly can help reduce your loss and increase the chance of getting your money back.

1.

Report the Fraud Immediately

If you have lost money through online financial fraud, call the 1930 Cyber Fraud Helpline right away.

You can also report the incident using the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.The official guidance on cybercrime suggests reporting financial fraud quickly so that action can be taken promptly.

2.

Contact Your Bank Immediately

Tell your bank, card issuer, or payment service provider about the fraudulent transaction.

Ask them to block the affected card, account, or payment method if needed, and get a complaint or acknowledgment number.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) advises customers to inform their bank as soon as they find an unauthorized electronic transaction.

The time you take to report can affect how much you are responsible for in some cases.

3.

Preserve All Evidence

Do not delete messages, emails, call records, screenshots, transaction details, or any suspicious links.

Keep the following information:

- Transaction ID or reference number

- Date and time of the transaction

- Bank or wallet details

- UPI ID or account details involved

- Phone numbers and email addresses

- Screenshots of conversations

- Website or social media profile details

- Call recordings or other relevant evidence

The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal specifically tells victims to keep the original digital evidence.

4.

File a Cyber Crime Complaint

You can file your complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

Give accurate details about how the fraud happened and upload any available evidence.

Your complaint will be handled by the police in your State or Union Territory.

5.

Secure Your Accounts

Change passwords and PINs that may have been compromised.

Use two-factor authentication wherever possible and block any cards or accounts that may be at risk.

Never share your OTP, PIN, CVV, password, or UPI PIN with anyone.

The RBI also advises users not to click on unknown links or share sensitive banking information.

6.

Follow Up on Your Complaint

Keep your complaint or acknowledgment number safe.

Follow up with your bank and the investigating authorities, and provide any extra information they ask for.

If your issue with a regulated financial entity is not resolved after contacting them, you can use RBI's Integrated Ombudsman Scheme, 2026.

This provides a free way to resolve complaints, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.