Last month, a friend received a text that looked like it came from his bank. The message warned that his account would be frozen unless he clicked the attached link.
In a hurry, he entered his details, and within minutes, ₹40,000 was gone.
This isn’t an isolated story.
From fake UPI calls to investment frauds, cybercrime in India is rising faster than ever. It’s no longer about faceless hackers in some distant country; it’s about everyday risks we all face while using our phones and laptops.
So, how to protect yourself from cyber crime ?
Let’s break it down.
Cyber Crimes in India
India is becoming a digital-first economy. UPI payments, online shopping, and remote work have made life convenient—but they’ve also opened new doors for scammers.
Here’s how cybercriminals commonly target people:
- Phishing emails & fake links: Messages that appear to be from your bank, e-wallet, or even government portals. They trick you into sharing login or card details.
- Social media scams: Fake giveaways, impersonated profiles, or investment groups on Telegram and WhatsApp.
- Online shopping frauds: Fake websites or sellers offering unbelievable discounts. The product never arrives—or you get something worthless.
- Fake trading and investment apps: Promises of guaranteed returns or “AI-based trading.” Many vanish overnight.
- Identity theft: Criminals misuse your Aadhaar, PAN, or phone number to open accounts or take loans in your name.
The pattern is clear: cybercriminals prey on trust and urgency. They create a sense of panic or temptation, hoping you act before you think.
How to Protect Yourself from Cyber Crime in India?
The good news? Most cybercrimes succeed because of small lapses we make. With a few simple practices, you can dramatically reduce your risk.
1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Never reuse the same password across multiple accounts. If one gets hacked, everything else is at risk. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Tools like password managers can store them securely so you don’t have to remember everything.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Whenever possible, switch on 2FA for your accounts. Even if someone steals your password, they can’t log in without the OTP or authentication app code.
3. Verify Before Clicking Links
Received an email or SMS with a link? Don’t rush. Check the sender’s address carefully. Fraudulent links often have tiny spelling errors—like “paytm.co” instead of “paytm.com.” When in doubt, go directly to the official website or app instead of clicking links.
4. Keep Software and Devices Updated
Outdated apps, browsers, and operating systems are easier to hack. Regular updates patch these weaknesses. Turn on auto-updates wherever possible.
5. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Transactions
Free Wi-Fi in cafes and airports can be a trap. Hackers can intercept your data. If you must use it, avoid logging into banking or payment apps.
6. Stick to Trusted Platforms
Before investing in a new app or website, verify if it’s registered with regulators like SEBI or RBI. Don’t get lured by “guaranteed returns.” In finance, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
7. Watch Out for Emotional Manipulation
Scammers often play on emotions—urgency (“your account will be blocked”), greed (“double your money in 7 days”), or fear (“legal action will be taken”). Pause. Take a breath. And verify before you act.
How to File a Cyber Crime Complaint?
Becoming a victim of online fraud is overwhelming, and it often leaves people unsure about their next steps.
And this is exactly why many people ask, should i report cyber crime? The answer is always yes. Reporting early not only increases your chances of stopping the fraud but also helps authorities take timely action.
Here’s what you should do:
1. Visit the Cyber Crime Online Portal
Use the official Government of India Cybercrime Portal to lodge complaints for online financial fraud, phishing, social media harassment, or identity theft. This ensures your case is formally registered.
2. Inform Your Bank or Wallet Provider
Contact your bank or payment app (Paytm, PhonePe, Google Pay, etc.) right away. Most banks have dedicated fraud helplines to freeze or investigate disputed transactions.
3. Report Financial Frauds to Regulators
- RBI (Reserve Bank of India): If you face fraud related to banks, NBFCs, or payment systems, file a complaint with the RBI Ombudsman through cms.rbi.org.in.
- SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India): For scams linked to fake trading apps, brokers, or investment platforms, raise a complaint on SEBI’s SCORES portal (scores.sebi.gov.in).
4. Collect and Preserve Evidence
Don’t delete messages, emails, or transaction records. Keep screenshots, transaction IDs, and call logs handy. These will strengthen your case during the investigation.
Remember: The faster you report, the higher the chances of stopping the fraud or recovering funds.
Need Help?
If you have been scammed in any online fraud, then take quick action and report your complaint. In case you need help, register with us.
Our team will guide you with the step-by-step process and help you recover from your losses.
Conclusion
Cybercrime isn’t going away. In fact, it will only get more sophisticated. And as the dangers of cyber crime continue to rise, staying informed and cautious becomes even more important in our daily digital lives.
But that doesn’t mean we’re helpless. Simple habits, like cautious clicking, strong passwords, and timely reporting, can make all the difference.
Think of it this way: you wouldn’t leave your front door unlocked at night. Treat your digital life with the same care. Lock it, guard it, and stay alert.
Because in today’s world, digital safety is as important as physical safety.
