How to File a Cyber Crime Complaint in Hyderabad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Online frauds, phishing attacks, identity theft and social media scams have become increasingly common across Hyderabad. Residents of Secunderabad, Cyberabad or the old city must know the correct procedure to file a cyber crime complaint to minimise losses. This guide explains the two official channels – the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and the local Hyderabad police – and walks you through each step.

When to file a cyber crime complaint

You should report any incident involving financial loss, unauthorised access to accounts, fake job offers, sextortion, SIM swapping, or online impersonation. Even if no money was lost, filing a complaint creates a legal record that can prevent the same fraudster from targeting others. For example, if you receive a phishing email pretending to be from a bank and you did not click any link, still report it through the portal so the authorities can warn other potential victims.

Hyderabad’s three police commissionerate jurisdictions

Hyderabad has dedicated cyber crime police stations under three commissionerates, but not all have a standalone cyber unit. Use the correct jurisdiction based on where you live or where the incident occurred.

Note: The helpline numbers above are verified as of March 2025. Always cross‑check using the official police websites if the number does not connect. For Cyberabad areas, you can also dial 8712667008 for WhatsApp‑based reporting.

Gather evidence before you file

Collect screenshots of the fraudulent message, call log, transaction ID, email headers, or social media profile. Save everything in a single folder on your phone or computer. For financial fraud, note down the transaction reference number, the amount lost, and the date and time. If the scammer used a fake social media profile, take a screenshot of the profile URL. The more evidence you attach with the complaint, the faster the verification process.

Step‑by‑step process to file a complaint

Call 1930 immediately if money was lost. This is the national cyber crime helpline, operational 24×7. Within minutes, the operator can issue a freeze request to the recipient bank account. Do not wait – banks often reverse transactions only if reported within the first 24 hours.
2. File on the National Cyber Crime Portal (cybercrime.gov.in). Select “Report Cybercrime” under the relevant category: Financial Fraud, Online Harassment, or Cyberbullying. Fill in your name, contact details, incident date, and a clear description. Attach all evidence in PDF or image format. Each file must be under 5 MB.
3. Visit the local cyber crime police station if needed. If the online system rejects your entry (common for complex multi‑stage frauds) or you prefer an in‑person complaint, go to the Nampally station (old city) or the Gachibowli station (Cyberabad areas). Carry a printed copy of the evidence, a self‑attested ID proof (Aadhaar, driving license, or passport), and a written complaint letter.
4. Obtain the complaint reference number. Whether filed online or in person, you will receive a unique acknowledgment number. The online portal sends it via SMS and email; the station gives a physically stamped copy. Keep this number for all future follow‑ups.

What happens after you file

The police verify the complaint, contact the relevant bank or platform, and begin investigation. For financial fraud over ₹5 lakh, a formal FIR is usually registered under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the Indian Penal Code. For smaller amounts, the complaint may be forwarded to the banking ombudsman or the RBI’s complaint system. The portal typically updates the status within 15–30 days. You can track it using your reference number on the portal’s “Track Complaint” section.

Important caveats

The 1930 helpline is most effective for real‑time blocking of fraudulent transactions. If more than 48 hours have passed, the money may already be withdrawn or laundered through multiple accounts. Not all complaints result in recovery – cyber criminals often use mule accounts, foreign servers, or cryptocurrency wallets. For complaints involving threats to personal safety, visit the nearest police station in person rather than relying only on the online portal. The Cyberabad Police cyber crime unit has the highest clearance rate in Telangana, but resources are limited – follow up politely using your reference number once every two weeks.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Filing only on social media: Tagging the police on X (Twitter) or Facebook does not constitute a formal complaint. You must use the official portal or visit the station.
• Not saving the complaint acknowledgment: Without the reference number, follow‑up becomes nearly impossible.
• Ignoring non‑financial scams: Even sextortion or cyber bullying can escalate – always file a complaint.
• Waiting too long: The golden window for fund recovery is the first 24 hours.

How to follow up on your complaint

After filing, call the concerned police station using the helpline numbers provided above and quote your reference number. For portal complaints, use the “Track Complaint” feature on cybercrime.gov.in. If there is no update after 30 days, send an email to the Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau at [email protected]. For complaints involving senior citizens or vulnerable victims, you can approach the local police station and request an FIR if the portal has not registered one.

Next steps for Hyderabad residents

Bookmark cybercrime.gov.in and save 1930 in your phone contacts. If you have elderly relatives who are less tech‑savvy, help them set up a simple rule: never share OTPs, never click unsolicited links, and always call you before making an online payment. Bookmark this guide for quick access, and report any suspicious activity to the authorities promptly. Share this article with your housing society WhatsApp groups – the more people know the correct process, the faster scams can be stopped.