Lost Money in Online Fraud? What to Do in the First Hour
Online fraud through UPI, fake KYC calls, investment apps, job tasks or "digital arrest" calls is now very common. Acting fast gives the best chance to stop the money before it is withdrawn.
In the first hour
- Call 1930, the National Cyber Crime Helpline, and give the transaction details.
- Report on cybercrime.gov.in and note the acknowledgement number.
- Call your bank to block your card, UPI and net banking, and ask them to raise a dispute for the transaction.
- Save evidence: screenshots of messages and calls, transaction IDs, the fraudster's numbers, UPI IDs and website links.
Next steps
- File a written complaint at the cyber cell or police station and keep the receipt or FIR copy.
- Follow up with your bank in writing. If the bank does not resolve the complaint within 30 days, you can complain to the RBI Integrated Ombudsman (cms.rbi.org.in).
- Report fraud calls and messages on the government's Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu).
Will the bank refund the money?
Under RBI rules on unauthorised electronic transactions, your liability depends on how quickly you report and whether the fraud happened because you shared your OTP, PIN or password. Reporting to the bank within 3 working days gives the strongest protection where you were not at fault. Reporting late increases your share of the loss.
Remember
- Police, CBI, courts and customs never "arrest" anyone on a video call or ask for money to close a case.
- No genuine bank or company asks for OTP, PIN or screen-sharing apps.
- Money "frozen" in the fraudster's account is released to you through the police and court process, so keep all receipts and the FIR copy.
This guide gives general legal information under Indian law as of October 2026. It is not legal advice. Laws, rules and fees change, and every case depends on its own facts, so take advice from an advocate before acting.