CYBER CRIME PORTAL

Abstract
"Every click, every login, every transaction—are you truly protected?"

The Cyber Crime Portal of India is a groundbreaking initiative by the Government of India,
designed to serve as a centralized, efficient, and accessible platform for reporting and
addressing cybercrime incidents. In an age where financial frauds, identity theft,
cyberstalking, phishing scams, hacking, data breaches, and crimes against women and
children are on the rise, this portal empowers citizens, law enforcement agencies, and
cybersecurity professionals to take proactive measures against digital threats.

This tech-driven platform integrates artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, digital

forensics, and cybersecurity analytics to enhance incident analysis, evidence collection,
and law enforcement coordination. It offers users the flexibility to report cybercrimes
anonymously or with tracking, ensuring confidentiality, transparency, and swift action.

Beyond just reporting, the portal serves as a hub for cyber awareness, equipping users with
resources on cyber hygiene, online safety, fraud prevention, and digital ethics. By
streamlining complaint redressal and strengthening India’s cybersecurity framework, the
Cyber Crime Portal plays a crucial role in enhancing national cyber resilience, mitigating
online risks, and securing the digital future of its citizens.
Chapter 1: Introduction

1. Introduction
With the increasing penetration of digital technology in India, cybercrimes have become a
growing concern, affecting individuals, businesses, and government institutions alike. The rise in
digital transactions, social media interactions, and online services has led to an increase
in cases of financial fraud, identity theft, cyberstalking, hacking, and other malicious
online activities. To combat these threats effectively, the Government of India launched the
Cyber Crime Portal under the Ministry of Home Affairs, providing a user-friendly,
accessible, and secure platform for victims of cyber offenses to seek assistance and justice.

This initiative serves as a centralized online system where individuals can report
cybercrimes, seek expert guidance, and track the status of their complaints without the
need for physical visits to law enforcement offices. The portal plays a crucial role in bridging
the gap between victims and law enforcement agencies, ensuring swift action and
redressal of grievances related to cyber threats and crimes. Additionally, it serves as a vital
resource for spreading cyber awareness, offering guidelines on cyber hygiene, safe internet
practices, and preventive measures to protect users from potential threats.

Beyond just complaint registration, the portal is integrated with financial institutions, social
media platforms, cybersecurity organizations, and forensic investigation units to
enhance cooperation and enable prompt intervention in cases such as online fraud,
phishing scams, and data breaches. It also provides priority assistance for crimes against
women and children, ensuring a secure and confidential mechanism for addressing sensitive
cases like cyber harassment, revenge porn, and deepfake exploitation.

By leveraging advanced digital tools, AI-based analytics, and real-time fraud detection
mechanisms, the Cyber Crime Portal contributes significantly to building a safer digital
ecosystem in the country. It aligns with India’s vision of strengthening cybersecurity
infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring a cyber-resilient society where
individuals and businesses can operate online with greater confidence and security.

2. Key Features and Objectives

The portal leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance cybersecurity awareness,
strengthen digital resilience, and foster improved cooperation between various government
bodies, financial institutions, and cybersecurity agencies. It serves as an educational hub,
offering valuable resources on safe online practices, cyber hygiene, data protection, and
the legal rights available to victims of cybercrimes.

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 ●​ Seamless Online Complaint System: Citizens can file complaints anonymously (in
sensitive cases) or with full details, eliminating the need to visit a police station
physically.
●​ Real-time Tracking & Status Updates: Users can monitor the progress of their
complaints, ensuring transparency, accountability, and timely resolution of cases.
●​ Integration with Financial Institutions: In cases of financial fraud, the portal is linked
with banks, e-wallet services, and payment gateways, enabling quick action to freeze
fraudulent transactions and help victims recover their money.
●​ Specialized Sections for Women & Children: The platform provides priority handling
and confidential assistance for cases involving cyberstalking, revenge porn, deep
fake threats, and online exploitation.
●​ Digital Forensics & Law Enforcement Collaboration: The system enables
investigating agencies to leverage digital forensic tools, trace cybercriminals, and take
preventive measures against emerging cyber threats.
●​ Capacity Building & Training: Law enforcement personnel, businesses, and individuals
can access training programs, cybersecurity best practices, and legal frameworks
to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.

3. Role in Strengthening Cybersecurity

The Cyber Crime Portal not only acts as a complaint redressal mechanism but also plays a
proactive role in ensuring public awareness and digital literacy. It collaborates with
cybersecurity organizations, ethical hackers, tech companies, and educational
institutions to develop a robust cybersecurity ecosystem. Through awareness campaigns,
workshops, and online safety drives, it encourages responsible digital behavior and promotes
safe internet usage among children, students, and working professionals.

With the growing reliance on digital transactions, social media, and online platforms, cyber
threats have become more sophisticated. The Cyber Crime Portal of India stands as a
powerful defense mechanism against such threats, ensuring a secure, accountable, and
cyber-resilient environment for all citizens. By continuously evolving and integrating
advanced technologies like AI-based threat detection, blockchain security, and real-time
fraud monitoring, the portal remains a cornerstone in India’s fight against cybercrime,
helping to build a safer digital future.

4. Mission
The mission of the Cyber Crime Portal is to create a secure and resilient digital
environment for all citizens by enabling swift, efficient, and transparent reporting and
resolution of cybercrimes. Recognizing the increasing dependence on digital platforms, the
portal is designed to empower individuals, businesses, and organizations with the

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knowledge, tools, and resources necessary to identify, prevent, and combat cyber threats
effectively.

Through proactive engagement and collaboration with law enforcement agencies,

cybersecurity professionals, and digital forensic experts, the portal strives to enhance
digital security and support efforts to curb cybercrimes at both national and regional
levels. It also prioritizes crimes against women, children, and vulnerable populations,
ensuring confidential and prompt intervention in such cases.

Additionally, the Cyber Crime Portal is committed to integrating advanced technologies such
as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and data analytics to automate
threat detection, streamline complaint handling, and improve response times. By
continuously adapting to emerging cyber threats, the portal plays a crucial role in fortifying
India's digital infrastructure and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and
vigilance.

Core Values

1.​ Accessibility – Ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their technical expertise, can
easily report cybercrimes through a simple, user-friendly, and multilingual
interface.​

2.​ Efficiency – Facilitating a fast and streamlined complaint redressal mechanism to

enable law enforcement agencies to take swift and effective action against
cybercriminals.​

3.​ Confidentiality – Safeguarding the privacy, identity, and sensitive information of

complainants, especially in cases involving cyber harassment, exploitation, or
financial fraud.​

4.​ Accountability – Ensuring that cybercriminals are held legally responsible for their
actions by facilitating evidence collection, investigation, and legal enforcement.​

5.​ Collaboration – Strengthening partnerships with law enforcement agencies,

financial institutions, cybersecurity professionals, ethical hackers, and the public
to build a strong, cyber-resilient ecosystem.​

6.​ Awareness – Conducting educational programs, workshops, and awareness

campaigns to equip citizens with cybersecurity best practices, ensuring they navigate
the digital space safely and responsibly.​

By upholding these core values, the Cyber Crime Portal stands as a powerful initiative to
protect citizens, enhance national cybersecurity, and create a safer digital future for
India.

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Who Can Register Complaints on the Cyber Crime Portal?

The Cyber Crime Portal is designed to be an inclusive and accessible platform for all
individuals who experience or witness cyber-related offenses. The following groups can register
complaints:

1.​ Individuals (Victims or Witnesses) – Any person who has been a victim of cybercrime
or has witnessed an online offense can file a complaint.
2.​ Parents or Guardians – In cases involving minors, parents or legal guardians can
report cybercrimes on their behalf.
3.​ Organizations and Businesses – Companies, institutions, and government bodies can
report cyber fraud, hacking attempts, data breaches, or corporate espionage
affecting their operations.
4.​ Law Enforcement Officials – Police officials and cybersecurity agencies can also use
the portal for investigation and tracking of cybercriminal activities.
5.​ Third-Party Complainants – Concerned citizens, friends, or colleagues can file
complaints if they witness cyberbullying, online abuse, identity theft, or any other
cyber offense, especially in cases where victims are hesitant to come forward.

Eligibility Criteria for Reporting Incidents

There are no strict eligibility criteria for reporting a complaint on the portal. However, the
following guidelines apply:

1.​ Indian Jurisdiction – The incident must be related to cybercrimes occurring within
India or involving Indian citizens. Cross-border cases may require additional
coordination with international law enforcement agencies.
2.​ Basic Information – The complainant must provide essential details such as:
○​ Personal details (Name, Contact Information, Email ID)
○​ Incident description (Date, Time, Nature of Crime)
○​ Evidence (Screenshots, Transaction Details, URLs, Chat Logs, etc.)
3.​ Anonymity for Certain Cases – The portal allows for anonymous reporting,
especially for crimes against women, children, and sensitive cases like cyber
harassment, deepfake exploitation, and revenge porn.
4.​ No Age or Gender Restrictions – Any individual, regardless of age or gender, can file a
complaint. Minors can seek assistance from parents or legal guardians if needed.

By ensuring wide accessibility and minimal restrictions, the Cyber Crime Portal
encourages individuals to report cybercrimes without fear, contributing to a safer and more
secure digital environment.

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Chapter 2: Types of Cyber Crimes & Reporting Process

1. Common Types of Cyber Crimes Reported on the Cyber Crime Portal

The Cyber Crime Portal allows users to report various types of online offenses. Here are five
common cybercrimes that can be reported:

1.​ Child Pornography / Child Sexually Abusive Material (CSAM): This involves the
creation, distribution, or possession of sexually explicit content involving minors. The
Cyber Crime Portal allows users to report such cases anonymously to protect the identity
of the complainant. Law enforcement agencies take strict action against offenders to
ensure child safety online.
2.​ Cyber Bullying: A form of harassment or bullying inflicted through the use of electronic
or communication devices such as computers, mobile phones, or laptops. It includes
sending threatening, abusive, or defamatory messages to individuals, often on social
media, emails, or messaging platforms.
3.​ Cyber Stalking: This refers to the act of using the internet or other electronic means to
harass or stalk an individual. Cyberstalking may involve monitoring someone’s online
activities, sending repeated and unwanted messages, or making threats to instill fear in
the victim.
4.​ Cyber Grooming: A process where online predators build relationships with minors by
gaining their trust, often with the intent of exploiting them for sexual or other illegal
activities. Cyber groomers use fake identities and manipulate children through social
media and online platforms.
5.​ Online Job Fraud: Scammers post fake job offers to extract money or personal
information from job seekers. Victims are often asked to pay a fee for job applications,
interviews, or training, only to realize that the job never existed.
6.​ Online Sextortion: A form of blackmail where cybercriminals threaten to release explicit
images or videos of a victim unless they comply with certain demands, such as sending
more explicit content or paying money.
7.​ Vishing: A type of phishing attack conducted over phone calls. Scammers impersonate
legitimate entities such as banks or government officials to trick victims into revealing
sensitive information like passwords and banking details.
8.​ Sexting: The act of sending, receiving, or forwarding sexually explicit messages, photos,
or videos through digital devices. While consensual sexting among adults may not be a
crime, it can become illegal if minors are involved.
9.​ Smishing: A cybercrime that involves sending fraudulent text messages (SMS) to trick
individuals into revealing personal information, such as credit card numbers or login
credentials.
10.​SIM Swap Scam: A fraud technique where criminals obtain control of a victim’s mobile
number by convincing the telecom provider to transfer the number to a new SIM card,
allowing them to access bank accounts and other sensitive information.

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11.​Debit/Credit Card Fraud: Unauthorized use of someone’s debit or credit card
information to make transactions without the owner’s consent. Fraudsters may obtain
card details through phishing websites, skimming devices, or data breaches.
12.​Impersonation and Identity Theft: A cybercrime where criminals steal personal
information such as names, addresses, Aadhaar numbers, or bank details to
impersonate someone for fraudulent activities like financial fraud or social engineering
scams.
13.​Phishing: A fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information such as usernames,
passwords, or banking details by pretending to be a trustworthy entity via emails,
websites, or messages.
14.​Spamming: Sending unsolicited bulk messages, usually for commercial advertising,
phishing attempts, or spreading malware. Spammers use emails, messages, and social
media platforms to target large audiences.
15.​Ransomware: A type of malicious software that encrypts the victim’s data and demands
a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. Failure to pay may result in
permanent data loss.
16.​Virus, Worms & Trojans: Malicious software programs designed to infiltrate and
damage computer systems. Viruses attach themselves to files, worms spread
independently, and Trojans disguise themselves as legitimate software to deceive users.
17.​Data Breach: Unauthorized access, disclosure, or theft of sensitive data from a secure
system. Data breaches can compromise personal, financial, and corporate information,
leading to identity theft and financial loss.
18.​Denial of Service (DoS) / Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS): An attack that
overwhelms a website or online service with excessive traffic, rendering it inaccessible to
legitimate users. DDoS attacks involve multiple compromised systems targeting a single
network.
19.​Website Defacement: A form of hacking where attackers modify the content of a
website, often replacing it with political, offensive, or misleading messages. This can
damage the reputation and credibility of organizations.
20.​Cyber-Squatting: The act of registering, selling, or using a domain name with the intent
of profiting from the goodwill of a trademark belonging to someone else. Cyber-squatters
often demand high payments to transfer the domain to its rightful owner.
21.​Pharming: A cyber attack that redirects website traffic to fraudulent websites without the
user's knowledge, often to steal login credentials or financial details.
22.​Cryptojacking: The unauthorized use of someone’s computing resources to mine
cryptocurrency. Hackers infect devices with malware that runs cryptocurrency mining
scripts in the background without the user’s consent.
23.​Online Drug Trafficking: The illegal sale and distribution of drugs through online
platforms, dark web marketplaces, and encrypted communication channels.
24.​Espionage: Cyber espionage involves unauthorized access to confidential or classified
information from government agencies, corporations, or individuals, often for political or
financial gain.

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2. Complaint Registration Process

Process of Registering a Cyber Crime Complaint on the Portal.To report a cybercrime, follow
these steps:

Step 1: Visit the Cyber Crime Portal

●​ Go to https://cybercrime.gov.in (official website of the Indian Cyber Crime Portal).

Step 2: Choose Reporting Option

●​ Click on “File a Complaint” and select either:

○​ Report Anonymously – If you do not wish to reveal your identity (only available
for cases involving women and children).
○​ Report & Track – If you want to receive updates on your complaint status.

Step 3: Provide Complaint Details

●​ Fill out the required details, including:

○​ Type of Cybercrime (e.g., financial fraud, online abuse, hacking, etc.).
○​ Incident Details (date, time, description of the crime).
○​ Location of Incident (optional but helps in case resolution).

Step 4: Upload Evidence (If Available)

●​ Users can upload supporting documents such as:

○​ Screenshots of messages, emails, or chats.
○​ Bank statements or transaction IDs for financial fraud.
○​ URLs or profile links of fake accounts.
○​ Call recordings (if applicable).

Step 5: Submit the Complaint

●​ After verifying all details, click “Submit” to register your complaint.

●​ You will receive a Complaint ID (only for Report & Track) to monitor case progress.

Documents or Evidence Required

To file a complaint on the Cyber Crime Portal, certain mandatory and optional details
must be provided. The mandatory information includes:

●​ Incident date and time.

●​ A detailed description of the incident (minimum 200 characters, without special
characters like #$@^*`’’~|!).

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 ●​ A valid national ID proof such as a Voter ID, Driving License, Passport, PAN, or Aadhaar
in .jpeg, .jpg, or .png format (maximum file size of 5 MB).
●​ For financial fraud cases, additional details such as:
○​ Bank, wallet, or merchant name.
○​ 12-digit transaction ID or UTR number.
○​ Date of transaction.
○​ Fraud amount.
●​ Relevant evidence files, each with a maximum file size of 10 MB.

Optional or desirable information that can aid the investigation includes:

●​ Suspected website URLs or social media handles.

●​ Suspect details (if available), such as:
○​ Mobile number.
○​ Email ID.
○​ Bank account number.
○​ Address.
○​ Photograph of the suspect in .jpeg, .jpg, or .png format (not exceeding 5 MB).
○​ Any other document that may help in tracking the suspect.

3. Reporting Methods on the Portal

Difference Between ‘Report Anonymously’ and ‘Report & Track’

Features Report Anonymously Report & Track

Purpose To allow victims, especially in To track complaint progress

sensitive cases (women & and receive updates from law
children), to report without enforcement.
revealing identity.

Identity Required? No, users do not have to Yes, requires login and
provide personal details. identity details.

Complaint Tracking Not possible since no Possible with a unique

personal details are provided. reference number.

Types of Crime Cyber crimes against women Any cyber crime.

and children.

Both options ensure that victims can report cybercrimes safely and effectively, providing
flexibility based on their privacy concerns and the nature of the case.

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Chapter 3: Legal Aspects of Cyber Crime

1. Relevant Sections of the IT Act, 2000 & IPC for Cyber Crimes
Cybercrimes in India are primarily governed by the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000,
and supplemented by relevant provisions in the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Below are key
sections dealing with cyber offenses:

Under the IT Act, 2000

1.​ Section 43 – Unauthorized Access and Data Theft

●​ Covers unauthorized access, downloading, data theft, and disruption of a system
without permission.
●​ Penalty: Compensation to the affected party (up to ₹1 crore).

2. Section 66 – Computer-Related Offenses

●​ Punishes fraudulent or dishonest access to computer systems.

●​ Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment or ₹5 lakh fine, or both.

3. Section 66A – Sending Offensive Messages Online (Struck Down by SC in 2015)

●​ Criminalized sending offensive, misleading, or annoying messages via electronic

means.
●​ Status: Declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2015.

4. Section 66B – Punishment for Identity Theft

●​ Covers unauthorized possession or use of stolen electronic information (like credit

card details, passwords, etc.).
●​ Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment or ₹1 lakh fine, or both.

5. Section 66C – Identity Theft & Impersonation

●​ Punishes fraudulent use of electronic signatures, passwords, or unique

identification data.
●​ Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment and ₹1 lakh fine.

6. Section 66D – Cheating by Personation Using Computer Resources

●​ Covers online fraud, phishing scams, and impersonation-based cheating.

●​ Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment and ₹1 lakh fine.

7. Section 66E – Violation of Privacy

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●​ Criminalizes capturing, transmitting, or publishing private images of a person
without consent.
●​ Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment and ₹2 lakh fine.

8. Section 66F – Cyber Terrorism

●​ Covers acts of hacking, cyber warfare, and unauthorized access that threaten
national security.
●​ Penalty: Life imprisonment.

9. Section 67 – Publishing or Transmitting Obscene Content

●​ Covers transmission or publication of obscene material through electronic means.

●​ Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment and ₹5 lakh fine for first offense.

10. Section 67A – Publishing Sexually Explicit Content

●​ Covers transmission of sexually explicit content.

●​ Penalty: Up to 5 years imprisonment and ₹10 lakh fine.

11. Section 67B – Child Pornography & Exploitation

●​ Criminalizes possession, publication, or transmission of child sexual abuse

material (CSAM).
●​ Penalty: Up to 5 years imprisonment and ₹10 lakh fine.

12. Section 69 – Government's Power to Intercept and Monitor

●​ Allows the government to intercept, monitor, or decrypt any information for national
security.
●​ Penalty for non-compliance: Up to 7 years imprisonment.

13. Section 72 – Breach of Confidentiality & Privacy

●​ Covers unauthorized disclosure of personal or confidential information by a

person entrusted with it.
●​ Penalty: Up to 2 years imprisonment or ₹1 lakh fine, or both.

14. Section 73 – Publishing False Digital Signatures

●​ Criminalizes forging digital signatures or publishing them falsely.

●​ Penalty: Up to 2 years imprisonment and ₹1 lakh fine.

15. Section 74 – Publishing Forged Electronic Records

●​ Covers forging, fabricating, or publishing fraudulent electronic records.

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 ●​ Penalty: Up to 2 years imprisonment and ₹1 lakh fine.

Under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860

1.​ Section 292 – Obscenity in Electronic Form

Penalizes selling, distributing, or publicly exhibiting obscene content.

Penalty: Up to 2 years imprisonment or fine, or both.

2.​ Section 345A, 345C, 345D – Cyber Stalking & Harassment (Misprint; Likely Refers
to Section 354A, 354C, 354D)
3.​ Section 354A (Sexual Harassment Online) – Covers sexually harassing messages
or emails.

Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment or fine.

4.​ Section 354C (Voyeurism) – Criminalizes spying or capturing intimate images

without consent.

Penalty: Up to 7 years imprisonment.

5.​ Section 354D (Cyber Stalking) – Covers repeated online harassment, tracking, or
sending unsolicited messages.

Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment for first offense.

6.​ Section 419 – Punishment for Cheating by Personation

Covers creating fake social media profiles or email IDs for fraud.

Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment or fine, or both.

7.​ Section 420 – Cheating & Fraud

Covers phishing, online scams, and credit card fraud.

Penalty: Up to 7 years imprisonment and fine.

8.​ Section 468 – Forgery for Purpose of Cheating

Covers forgery of documents, digital signatures, or email IDs for cheating.

Penalty: Up to 7 years imprisonment and fine.

9.​ Section 500 – Online Defamation

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 Covers publishing defamatory material online (blogs, posts, videos, etc.).

Penalty: Up to 2 years imprisonment or fine, or both.

10. Section 503 – Criminal Intimidation

Covers threatening someone via email, text, or social media.

Penalty: Up to 2 years imprisonment or fine, or both.

11. Section 509 – Insulting the Modesty of a Woman

Covers sending obscene messages, threats, or blackmail online.

Penalty: Up to 3 years imprisonment or fine, or both.

12.Section 511 – Attempt to Commit Cyber Crimes

Covers attempting any offense related to hacking, fraud, or digital theft.

Penalty: Punishment depends on the attempted crime.

2. Penalties for Cyber Offenses in India

Cyber Crime Legal Provision Penalty

Hacking & Unauthorized IT Act, Sec 66 Up to 3 years imprisonment

Access and/or ₹5 lakh fine

Identity Theft IT Act, Sec 66C Up to 3 years imprisonment

and ₹1 lakh fine

Online Fraud (Phishing, IT Act, Sec 66D Up to 3 years imprisonment

Credit Card Fraud, etc.) and ₹1 lakh fine

Cyber Stalking & IPC Sec 354D Up to 3 years imprisonment

Harassment (for first offense)

Online Defamation IPC Sec 500 Up to 2 years imprisonment

and/or fine

Publishing Obscene IT Act, Sec 67 Up to 3 years imprisonment

Content and ₹5 lakh fine (for first
conviction)

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 Cyber Terrorism IT Act, Sec 66F Life imprisonment

The penalties serve as a deterrent, ensuring strict legal action against cybercriminals.

3. Role of the National Cyber Crime Reporting Helpline

The National Cyber Crime Reporting Helpline (1930) is an initiative by the Ministry of Home
Affairs (MHA) to provide real-time assistance in cyber fraud cases.

Key Functions:

1.​ Immediate Action on Financial Fraud​

○​ Victims of UPI frauds, card frauds, and online scams can call 1930 for quick
action.
○​ The helpline works with banks, e-wallet companies, and financial institutions to
freeze fraudulent transactions.
2.​ Guidance on Cyber Crime Complaints​

○​ Assists victims in filing complaints on the Cyber Crime Portal.

○​ Provides advice on legal actions, digital safety, and reporting procedures.
3.​ Coordination with Law Enforcement Agencies​

○​ The helpline transfers cases to local police cyber cells for further investigation.
○​ Ensures that cases are escalated based on severity (e.g., cyberstalking, child
exploitation, hacking).
4.​ Awareness & Prevention Initiatives​

○​ Educates the public on cyber fraud prevention, cyber hygiene, and reporting
mechanisms.
○​ Works with cybersecurity agencies to enhance digital security awareness.

By acting as a bridge between victims, financial institutions, and law enforcement, the 1930
helpline plays a critical role in minimizing cybercrime impact and improving case resolution
speed.

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Chapter 4: Special Provisions for Women and Children
Cybercrimes targeting women and children, such as cyberbullying, online harassment, stalking,
and revenge pornography, require immediate and specialized attention. The Cyber Crime
Portal provides dedicated support to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable groups
through various measures.

1. Safety Measures for Women and Children

The Cyber Crime Portal prioritizes complaints related to cybercrimes against women and
children by providing a dedicated section for reporting such offenses. The portal ensures:

Priority Attention from Law Enforcement

●​ Cases related to women and children are prioritized to ensure swift action.
●​ Law enforcement agencies work closely with cybersecurity experts to track offenders.

Immediate Action on Child Pornography & Sexual Abuse Content

●​ Any complaint involving Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) is handled on priority and
removed immediately.
●​ Law enforcement partners with social media platforms to take down such content.

Anonymous Complaint Option for Women & Children

●​ Victims can report cybercrimes anonymously, ensuring privacy and security.

●​ This feature encourages individuals who might otherwise hesitate due to fear or stigma.

Fast-Track Removal of Offensive Content from Social Media

●​ Authorities work directly with social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.)
to remove content violating women’s dignity.
●​ Victims can request the removal of morphed images, defamatory posts, or blackmail
threats.

National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) for Women & Children

●​ A 24/7 helpline (1930) is available for urgent assistance and real-time intervention.
●​ Victims can call and seek guidance, legal advice, and protection from cyber threats.

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2. Special Categories for Women and Children on the Cyber Crime
Portal
Women and children facing cyber threats can file complaints under specific categories:

Cyber Stalking & Harassment

●​ Repeated online threats, tracking, or monitoring without consent.

●​ Example: Receiving unsolicited obscene messages or emails.

Cyberbullying & Trolling

●​ Intentional harassment through demeaning comments, threats, or rumors.

●​ Example: Public shaming or hate messages targeting women and minors.

Revenge Porn & Non-Consensual Image Sharing

●​ Sharing intimate pictures/videos without consent, often to blackmail or humiliate victims.

●​ Example: Ex-partners posting private photos on social media.

Online Sexual Exploitation of Children

●​ Grooming, sextortion, or circulation of child sexual abuse material.

●​ Example: An adult forcing a minor to send inappropriate pictures.

Morphing & Deepfake Abuse

●​ Manipulating images/videos to create fake explicit content.

●​ Example: AI-generated deepfake videos targeting celebrities or individuals.

Fake Profiles & Identity Theft

●​ Creating fake social media profiles to impersonate someone.

●​ Example: Using a woman’s name and photos to scam others online.

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3. Legal Protections Available Under Indian Law
Several sections under the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000, and the Indian Penal
Code (IPC) provide legal protection against cybercrimes targeting women and children.

Cyberbullying & Online Harassment

●​ Section 354D (IPC) – Cyberstalking

○​ Up to three years imprisonment for the first offense.
○​ Up to five years imprisonment for repeat offenders.
●​ Section 67 of IT Act – Publishing Obscene Content Online
○​ Up to three years imprisonment and ₹5 lakh fine.

Revenge Porn & Non-Consensual Image Sharing

●​ Section 66E (IT Act) – Violation of Privacy

○​ Up to three years imprisonment or ₹2 lakh fine.
●​ Section 67A (IT Act) – Publishing Sexually Explicit Content
○​ Up to five years imprisonment and ₹10 lakh fine.

Child Exploitation & Child Pornography

●​ Section 67B (IT Act) – Child Pornography & Sexting

○​ Up to five years imprisonment and ₹10 lakh fine.
●​ POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act, 2012)
○​ Strict action against online predators targeting minors.

Online Defamation & Threats

●​ Section 500 (IPC) – Defamation

○​ Up to two years imprisonment or fine.
●​ Section 503 (IPC) – Criminal Intimidation
○​ Covers death threats, rape threats, and blackmailing online.
●​ Section 509 (IPC) – Insulting the Modesty of a Woman
○​ Covers lewd comments, inappropriate DMs, and cyber abuse.

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4. Helplines & Support Services
Victims of cybercrime can seek help through multiple helplines and portals:

National Cyber Crime Helpline – 1930

●​ Emergency assistance for cybercrime victims.

●​ Real-time intervention to track down offenders.

Cyber Crime Portal – www.cybercrime.gov.in

●​ File complaints about cybercrimes online.

●​ Track case progress and seek legal support.

Women’s Helpline – 1091

●​ Dedicated helpline for women facing cyber harassment.

●​ Connects victims with legal and psychological support.

Childline (For Minors) – 1098

●​ Support for children facing online threats, exploitation, or cyberbullying.

National Commission for Women (NCW) – www.ncw.nic.in

●​ Legal support, intervention, and assistance for cybercrimes against women.

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Chapter 5: Cyber Crime Investigation & Awareness
The investigation of cyber crimes requires specialized tools, forensic techniques, and
awareness initiatives to ensure effective law enforcement and public education. The Cyber
Crime Portal supports these efforts by enabling advanced investigative technologies and
promoting cybersecurity awareness among citizens.

1. Investigation Technologies & Forensic Techniques

Law enforcement agencies use various digital tools and techniques to track, analyze, and
prosecute cybercriminals.

Key Technologies Used in Cyber Crime Investigations

●​ Digital Forensics Tools – Software like EnCase, FTK, and Autopsy is used for
collecting and analyzing digital evidence from computers and storage devices.
●​ Network Forensics – Tools like Wireshark, Splunk, and SIEM (Security Information
and Event Management) track cyberattacks, monitor suspicious network traffic, and
analyze data packets.
●​ AI & Machine Learning – Used for fraud detection, phishing attack identification, and
anomaly detection in financial transactions.
●​ Blockchain Analysis – Helps law enforcement trace cryptocurrency transactions linked
to illegal activities, such as ransomware payments.
●​ Dark Web Monitoring – Detects illicit activities, such as data breaches, illegal arms
sales, and cybercrime marketplaces operating on hidden networks.

Forensic Techniques Used in Cyber Crime Investigations

●​ Disk Forensics – Extracts deleted, encrypted, or hidden data from hard drives, SSDs,
and USB devices.
●​ Memory Forensics – Analyzes volatile memory (RAM) to detect live cyber threats,
including malware and unauthorized access.
●​ Email & Log Analysis – Investigates phishing attacks, fraud, and unauthorized access
attempts through email headers and system logs.
●​ IP Tracking & Geolocation – Identifies the source of cyberattacks and traces
cybercriminals' locations.
●​ Social Media Investigation – Analyzes fake accounts, cyber harassment cases, and
online fraud schemes.

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2. Challenges in Investigating and Prosecuting Cyber Crimes in India
Despite technological advancements, cybercrime investigations in India face several obstacles:

Anonymity of Cybercriminals

●​ Criminals use VPNs, TOR networks, encrypted messaging apps, and proxy servers
to hide their identities, making tracking difficult.

Jurisdiction Issues

●​ Cyber crimes often cross international borders, requiring coordination between

multiple law enforcement agencies across different countries.
●​ Different countries have varying laws on digital evidence, data privacy, and cyber
offenses, complicating investigations.

Lack of Skilled Investigators

●​ There is a shortage of trained cybersecurity professionals and forensic experts in

law enforcement agencies.
●​ Many local police stations lack technical expertise and necessary digital forensics
tools to handle complex cybercrime cases.

Slow Legal Processes

●​ Cyber laws in India, such as the IT Act, 2000, need frequent updates to keep up with
evolving threats.
●​ Legal proceedings for cybercrime cases can be lengthy, causing delays in justice
delivery.

Rapidly Evolving Cyber Threats

●​ Hackers constantly develop new malware, ransomware, phishing tactics, and social
engineering methods.
●​ Law enforcement agencies need continuous training and upgraded tools to stay
ahead of cybercriminals.

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3. Cybersecurity Awareness Initiatives on the Cyber Crime Portal
The Government of India has launched several initiatives to educate citizens, prevent cyber
crimes, and promote responsible online behavior.

Cyber Jaagrookta Diwas (Cyber Awareness Day)

●​ A monthly initiative conducted in schools, colleges, and workplaces to educate

individuals about online safety and cybercrime prevention.
●​ Sessions cover topics like password security, phishing scams, social media safety,
and digital hygiene.

Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in)

●​ An online platform for citizens to report cyber crimes easily.

●​ Offers options for anonymous complaints and tracking complaint status.
●​ Provides guidelines on cybersecurity best practices and how to protect against
common cyber threats.

Citizen Awareness Programs

●​ Social media campaigns, webinars, and workshops educate people about cyber
frauds, digital scams, and online threats.
●​ Partnerships with NGOs, cybersecurity firms, and educational institutions to
spread cybersecurity awareness.
●​ Special training sessions for elderly individuals and rural communities who may be
more vulnerable to cyber frauds.

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Chapter 6: Case Studies & Career Opportunities
Cyber crimes have become a significant concern in India, leading to high-profile investigations
and the need for skilled professionals in cybersecurity. This section highlights a real-life case
study demonstrating the role of cyber forensics in crime investigations and explores career
opportunities in cybersecurity.

1. Real-Life Cyber Crime Case Study: The 2001 Indian Parliament

Attack
Incident Overview

On December 13, 2001, a highly coordinated terrorist attack took place at the Parliament
House in New Delhi. Five heavily armed terrorists infiltrated the premises, leading to a deadly
standoff with security forces. The attack resulted in nine fatalities, including security personnel
and a gardener. However, due to the swift response of law enforcement, all five terrorists were
neutralized, preventing further casualties and damage.

Role of Cyber Forensics in the Investigation

Cyber forensic experts played a crucial role in gathering digital evidence, which helped uncover
key details about the attack. A laptop recovered from the terrorists contained critical data that
assisted in the investigation.

The Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPRD) conducted a detailed forensic
analysis of the seized digital evidence. Investigators found forged documents, including fake
Home Ministry stickers and ID cards, which were used to gain access to the Parliament
complex. Additionally, forensic experts discovered that the attackers had used scanned
government emblems and seals to create official-looking documents. This analysis also
traced digital communications and email exchanges, which provided leads on possible
external links to terrorist organizations.

Outcome of the Investigation

The cyber forensic analysis provided critical digital evidence that helped authorities
understand the planning and execution of the attack. This investigation led to tightened digital
security protocols across government institutions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Furthermore, the case highlighted the importance of cybersecurity measures, especially in
protecting national security infrastructures from cyber-aided attacks.

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2. Career Opportunities in Cybersecurity
The rise in cyber threats has led to an increasing demand for skilled professionals in
cybersecurity. Here are some prominent career opportunities:

Cybersecurity Career Paths

1.​ Digital Forensics Analyst​

○​ Specializes in retrieving, analyzing, and preserving electronic evidence.

○​ Works with law enforcement to investigate cyber crimes such as hacking and
fraud.
2.​ Cyber Crime Investigator​

○​ Identifies cyber threats, fraud, and criminal activities in digital environments.

○​ Collaborates with government agencies and private organizations to track down
cybercriminals.
3.​ Ethical Hacker (Penetration Tester)​

○​ Simulates cyberattacks to assess system vulnerabilities.

○​ Helps organizations strengthen their security defenses against real threats.
4.​ Incident Response Analyst​

○​ Responds to security breaches, mitigating damage and preventing future attacks.

○​ Analyzes malware and intrusion patterns to improve cybersecurity strategies.
5.​ Cybersecurity Consultant​

○​ Advises businesses and government agencies on best security practices.

○​ Designs and implements security frameworks to protect sensitive data.

3. Role of Ethical Hackers in Cyber Crime Prevention

Ethical hackers, also known as white-hat hackers, play a vital role in strengthening
cybersecurity by identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities before malicious attackers can exploit
them. Their expertise is crucial in preventing cybercrimes and ensuring digital safety across
organizations, government institutions, and individual users.

Key Contributions of Ethical Hackers:

1.​ Simulating Cyberattacks (Penetration Testing)​

Ethical hackers conduct penetration testing to simulate real-world cyberattacks and
uncover potential security weaknesses in networks, applications, and systems. This

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 proactive approach helps organizations fix vulnerabilities before hackers exploit them.​

2.​ Vulnerability Assessments & Risk Mitigation​

They perform comprehensive security audits to identify weaknesses in an
organization’s IT infrastructure. By analyzing security gaps, ethical hackers provide
recommendations and solutions to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and
system intrusions.​

3.​ Assisting Law Enforcement in Cybercrime Investigations​

Ethical hackers collaborate with law enforcement agencies to track down
cybercriminals, analyze digital evidence, and prevent cyber frauds such as phishing,
identity theft, ransomware attacks, and financial scams. Their expertise in digital
forensics helps authorities trace attackers and strengthen cyber laws.​

4.​ Preventing Data Breaches & Securing Sensitive Information​

Organizations, especially those handling sensitive user data (e.g., banking, healthcare,
and government agencies), rely on ethical hackers to secure databases, cloud
storage, and internal networks. They ensure data encryption, access control, and
threat monitoring to protect against cyber threats.​

5.​ Enhancing Cybersecurity Awareness & Training​

Ethical hackers play a major role in educating businesses, government officials, and the
general public about cyber hygiene and security best practices. They conduct
workshops, cybersecurity training programs, and awareness campaigns to help
users recognize potential threats such as malware, phishing, and social engineering
attacks.​

6.​ Developing Advanced Security Solutions​

Ethical hackers contribute to the development of firewalls, intrusion detection
systems (IDS), anti-malware software, and AI-based cybersecurity tools that help
organizations defend against emerging threats.​

7.​ Securing Critical Infrastructure & IoT Devices​

With the rise of smart devices, IoT networks, and industrial control systems, ethical
hackers work on securing connected devices from cyberattacks. They identify
potential threats in smart grids, healthcare systems, financial networks, and
transportation infrastructure, ensuring robust security mechanisms against cyber
intrusions.​

8.​ Strengthening National & Corporate Cybersecurity Policies​

Ethical hackers provide insights to government agencies and corporate
cybersecurity teams to shape stronger security policies, compliance frameworks,
and incident response plans. Their expertise ensures cyber laws and security
protocols remain updated to counter evolving cyber threats.

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Chapter 7: Challenges & Future Prospects
While the Cyber Crime Portal has proven to be an essential tool in the fight against cyber
threats, it faces several challenges that need to be addressed to maximize its impact.

1. Challenges
1.​ Lack of Awareness – A significant portion of the population, particularly in rural and
semi-urban areas, remains unaware of the portal’s existence and its functionalities.
Many cybercrime victims fail to report incidents due to a lack of knowledge on how to
file complaints.​

2.​ Technical Limitations in Rural Areas – Limited internet access, digital literacy, and
infrastructure challenges in remote areas create barriers to effective utilization of the
portal.​

3.​ Delay in Case Resolutions – The high volume of complaints and resource constraints
in law enforcement agencies often lead to delays in investigation and resolution of
cybercrime cases.​

4.​ Hesitation to Report Cybercrimes – Victims, especially in cases of online

harassment, financial fraud, and cyber exploitation, often fear stigma, legal
complications, or lack of trust in the system, leading to underreporting of
incidents.​

5.​ Evolving Cyber Threats – The rapid advancement of cyber threats, including
AI-driven phishing attacks, ransomware, deepfake scams, and cryptocurrency
frauds, demands continuous updates and improvements in the portal’s capabilities.​

2. Future Scope
To overcome these challenges and ensure the portal remains efficient, secure, and widely
accessible, the Government of India plans to implement several strategic advancements:

1.​ Expanding Outreach Programs – Launching nationwide awareness campaigns,

workshops, and digital literacy programs to educate citizens on cyber threats,
prevention methods, and how to use the portal effectively. Special focus will be
placed on rural and semi-urban areas to bridge the digital divide.​

2.​ Enhancing AI-Driven Cyber Threat Detection – Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI)
and Machine Learning (ML) to analyze cybercrime patterns, detect threats
proactively, and predict potential cyber-attacks for faster intervention.​

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 3.​ Strengthening International Collaborations – Establishing stronger partnerships
with global cybersecurity agencies, ethical hackers, and Interpol to combat
cross-border cybercrimes, ensuring swift action on international cyber threats.​

4.​ Implementing Blockchain Technology – Integrating blockchain technology to create

a tamper-proof, transparent, and secure complaint management system, ensuring
integrity and authenticity of reported cases.​

5.​ Introducing 24/7 Cyber Assistance Helplines – Setting up round-the-clock cyber

support centers with expert assistance, enabling citizens to report and seek
immediate help for urgent cybercrimes, such as financial fraud and identity theft.​

6.​ Improving Response Time & Case Resolution – Strengthening coordination

between law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, and cybersecurity
organizations to reduce investigation time and speed up case resolutions.​

7.​ Integrating Advanced Digital Forensics – Equipping law enforcement agencies with
cutting-edge forensic tools for cybercrime investigations, digital evidence
retrieval, and real-time tracking of cybercriminals.​

By addressing these challenges and embracing technological advancements, the Cyber

Crime Portal aims to evolve into a globally recognized, highly efficient, and citizen-friendly
cybersecurity platform, ensuring a safer digital space for all.

Conclusion

The Cyber Crime Portal of India is a vital step toward securing the nation’s digital landscape. By
providing an efficient platform for cybercrime reporting and resolution, it ensures that citizens
can seek redressal without legal or geographical barriers. With continuous improvements and
awareness campaigns, the portal has the potential to become a cornerstone of India’s
cybersecurity framework, fostering a safer and more secure online environment for all. By
integrating advanced technologies, enhancing user engagement, and strengthening
cybersecurity policies, the government can further solidify the nation’s defense against digital
threats.

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