How to File an e-FIR & Freeze Cyber Scammers’ Accounts

Introduction: Cybercrime in India — Why Speed Matters More Than Ever

India’s digital transformation has been rapid and empowering. Today, millions of Indians rely on UPI, net banking, mobile wallets, e-commerce platforms, social media, and online investments for daily life. However, this convenience has also opened doors for cybercriminals.

From phishing links and fake customer-care calls to investment scams, fake loan apps, impersonation frauds, and UPI collect request traps, cyber fraud has become one of the fastest-growing crimes in India.

What most victims don’t realize is this:

Cyber fraud is not just about reporting — it is about timing.

Indian cybercrime authorities, including Yashasvi Yadav, Additional Director General of Police, Maharashtra Cyber, have repeatedly emphasized that prompt reporting can stop scammers, freeze their accounts, and even recover lost money.

This guide explains — exactly how to file an e-FIR, how accounts are frozen, what evidence is required, and how Indian law protects you.

Also Read: Understanding Cyber Crime in India's Major Cities

Understanding the “Golden Hour” in Cyber Fraud

What Is the Golden Hour?

The Golden Hour refers to the first few hours after a cyber fraud occurs. During this time:

1. The stolen money often remains in the scammer’s or mule account

2. Banks can freeze transactions before funds are layered or withdrawn

3. Digital trails (IP addresses, UPI routes, device logs) are still intact

Delay = lower recovery chances

Cybercriminals usually move stolen money through multiple accounts within hours. Once the money leaves the first account, recovery becomes difficult.

Also Read: 15 Best Ways to Protect Yourself from Cybercrime in 2025

Step 1: Call the National Cybercrime Helpline — 1930

What Is 1930?

1930 is India’s National Cybercrime Helpline, operational 24×7, dedicated mainly to financial cyber frauds.

This includes:

1. UPI fraud

2. Debit/credit card misuse

3. Internet banking fraud

4. Wallet fraud

5. Fake investment scams

6. Online shopping scams

Why Calling 1930 Is Critical

When you call 1930:

1. Your complaint is logged immediately

2. Banks and payment platforms are alerted in real time

3. Suspect accounts can be temporarily frozen

4. Your case enters the national cybercrime system

Many victims recover money only because they called 1930 in time.

What Information You Should Keep Ready

1. Date & time of fraud

2. Amount lost

3. Mode of payment (UPI / card / net banking)

4. Transaction ID or UTR

5. Bank or wallet name

Even if you don’t have everything, call first — details can be added later.

Also Read: Cyber Extortion In India : How To Deal With It

Step 2: File an e-FIR on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal

What Is an e-FIR in Cybercrime Cases?

In cyber offences, an online complaint filed on the official portal functions like an FIR. It is legally recognized and forwarded to the appropriate cyber police unit.

The official portal is operated by the Government of India:

National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal

Where to File the Complaint

https://www.cybercrime.gov.in

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing an e-FIR Online

Step 1: Visit the Portal

Go to cybercrime.gov.in and click on “Report Cyber Crime”.

Step 2: Choose the Type of Complaint

You will see categories such as:

1. Financial Fraud

2. Online & Social Media Crime

3. Identity Theft

4. Hacking / Data Breach

Choose the option that best matches your case.

Step 3: Enter Your Details

Fill in:

1. Name

2. Mobile number

3. Email ID

4. Address

(Your details are protected and used only for investigation.)

Also Read: Unauthorized Bank Transaction? Here’s How to Get Your Money Back Quickly!

Step 4: Describe the Incident Clearly

Explain:

1. How the fraud happened

2. What the scammer said or did

3. How money was transferred

4. What you discovered later

Write clearly and honestly — no legal language required.

Step 5: Upload Evidence

Attach:

1. Bank SMS alerts

2. Transaction screenshots

3. WhatsApp chats

4. Scam website/app screenshots

5. Emails or social media profiles

Step 6: Submit & Save Complaint ID

After submission:

1. You receive a Complaint ID

2. The complaint is forwarded automatically to the concerned cyber cell

This Complaint ID is extremely important for follow-ups.

Also Read: The Rise of Online Lawyer Consultation: A Comprehensive Guide

Step 3: Contact Your Bank or Wallet Provider Immediately

While the police system works on freezing accounts, you must also alert your bank or wallet provider directly.

What to Tell Your Bank

1. Inform them of unauthorized or fraudulent transaction

2. Share transaction ID

3. Ask for temporary freeze or lien marking

4. Request escalation to their fraud response team

Important Security Actions

Change:

1. Net banking password

2. UPI PIN

3. Emai l password

Enable:

1. Two-factor authentication (2FA)

2. Transaction alerts

Banks work closely with cyber police, and early bank intimation strengthens your case.

How Do Police Freeze Cyber Scammers’ Accounts?

Understanding Account Freezing (In Simple Terms)

Once your complaint is verified:

1. Police identify the first beneficiary account

2. Banks are instructed to freeze debit access

3. Money cannot be withdrawn or transferred

4. Further investigation traces connected accounts

Role of Mule Accounts

Scammers often use “money mule” accounts — accounts of individuals who allow their bank details to be misused.

Freezing these accounts:

1. Stops further laundering

2. Helps identify larger fraud networks

This coordinated approach has helped cyber police units across India block massive fraud amounts.

Role of State Cyber Cells & Maharashtra Cyber

State cyber units play a major role in enforcement. One of the most advanced units in India is Maharashtra Cyber.

Senior officers, including Yashasvi Yadav, have publicly highlighted how technology + fast reporting + bank coordination has led to:

1. Large-scale account freezes

2. Prevention of repeat fraud

3. Recovery of significant fraud proceeds

This model is now being replicated across states.

Is Cyber Fraud a Cognizable Offence?

Yes — And This Is Important

Under Indian law:

1. Cyber fraud is a cognizable offence

2. Police can act without court permission

3. FIR / e-FIR registration is your legal right

4. Jurisdiction is not a barrier for online crimes

You cannot be refused a cybercrime complaint simply because:

1. The scammer is in another state

2. The fraud happened online

3. The amount is “small”

What Happens After Filing the Complaint?

Investigation Process

After registration:

1. Cyber police examine evidence

2. Banks share transaction trails

3. Technical data is analyzed

4. Suspect accounts remain frozen

If required, police may:

1. Convert the complaint into a formal FIR

2. Summon banks or intermediaries

3. Seek further documents from you

Should You Visit the Police Station?

Usually not required initially. You may be called later for:

1. Statement recording

2. Document verification

Common Mistakes Victims Should Avoid

1. Waiting too long to report

2. Assuming small amounts are “gone forever”

3. Falling for “recovery agents” or fake helpers

4. Deleting chats or transaction messages

5. Paying anyone claiming to “get your money back”

There is no private shortcut to recovery — only official channels work.

Prevention: How to Protect Yourself from Cyber Scams

Golden Safety Rules

1. Never share OTPs, PINs, CVV

2. Don’t click unknown links

3. Verify caller identity independently

4. Use official apps only

5. Regularly review bank statements

Stay Informed

Cybercrime evolves rapidly. Awareness is your strongest defense.

Final Checklist: What To Do If You’re Scammed

1. Call 1930 immediately

2. File e-FIR on cybercrime.gov.in

3. Inform your bank or wallet provider

4. Preserve all evidence

5. Follow up using your Complaint ID

Conclusion: Act Fast, Act Smart, Act Lawfully

Cybercrime thrives on panic, delay, and silence. Indian cybercrime systems now allow any citizen to report instantly, digitally, and securely.

As repeatedly emphasized by senior cyber police officials like Yashasvi Yadav, timely action can stop scammers in their tracks.

If you ever face a cyber fraud:
Don’t panic. Don’t delay. Report immediately.

Your speed could save not just your money — but others too.