Advocate Abdul Kaleem

Frequently Asked Legal Questions

What to do if I’m a victim of online fraud?

Immediately report the incident on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in), contact your bank to freeze the account, and preserve all evidence like messages, screenshots, or transaction details. FIR can be filed under relevant IPC and IT Act sections.

Can I file a cybercrime complaint online?

Yes, you can lodge a complaint through www.cybercrime.gov.in. You’ll need to provide your personal details, incident description, evidence like screenshots or emails, and optionally a police report.

How to trace a fraud transaction?

Inform your bank immediately and request a transaction freeze. With cyber cell help, authorities can trace the transaction ID, beneficiary bank, and mobile number. Early reporting increases recovery chances.

Can compensation be claimed from the bank?

Yes, under RBI guidelines, if the fraud was due to bank’s negligence and you reported it promptly, you may be eligible for full or partial compensation. File a complaint with the bank’s grievance redressal cell first.

What evidence is needed in a cybercrime case?

Retain all digital proof such as chat history, emails, screenshots, transaction receipts, call logs, and URLs. Proper documentation of these helps law enforcement investigate and prove the crime.

Can sending threatening messages online be punished?

Yes, threatening messages via WhatsApp, email, or social media can lead to prosecution under IPC Sections 506 (criminal intimidation) and 507, and IT Act provisions. Police can initiate action if a complaint is filed.

Can police investigate WhatsApp messages?

Yes, police can analyze WhatsApp chats as evidence during investigation. They may request backup data or metadata through official channels and use screenshots or call logs if admissible in court.

What is Section 66A of IT Act?

Section 66A penalized sending offensive messages via communication services. However, it was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2015 for violating freedom of speech. It is no longer valid law.

Can online defamation be punished?

Yes, publishing false statements on digital platforms that damage reputation can be prosecuted under IPC Section 499 and 500. Civil defamation suits for compensation can also be filed.

Is OTP fraud covered under IPC?

Yes, OTP fraud is punishable under IPC Sections 420 (cheating), 66C & 66D of IT Act (identity theft and impersonation), and can lead to imprisonment and fine. Report such frauds immediately to cyber cell.

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