How to file a cybercrime complaint

Cybercrime, including trolling has no jurisdiction. Such crime can be reported to the cybercrime units of a city, irrespective of the place the offence is committed.

Steps to file a cybercrime complaint:
1. Submit an application letter addressing the chief of the Cybercrime Division.

2. While lodging a cyber complaint, you need to provide your name, contact details and address for mailing. The complaint has to be addressed to the head of the Cybercrime Division of the city where you are filing the cybercrime complaint.

3. If you are a victim of online harassment, you may be asked to provide certain documents with the complaint. This depends on the nature of the crime.

4. Register a cybercrime FIR: if you do not have access to any of the cyber cells, you can file a first information report (FIR) at the local police station. In case your complaint is not accepted there, you can approach the commissioner or magistrate.

5. Certain cybercrime offenses come under the Indian Penal Code. You can register a cybercrime FIR at the nearest police station to report them.

It is mandatory under Section 154 of the Code of Criminal Procedure for every police officer to record the information or complaint of an offense, irrespective of the jurisdiction in which the crime was committed.

6. Most of the cybercrimes that are covered under the Indian Penal Code are classified as cognizable offenses. A cognizable offence is the one in which a warrant is not required for an arrest or investigation.

Documents required for social media-based complaints:
1. Provide a copy or screenshot showing the offending profile or content.

2. A screenshot of the URL of the content.

3. Hard and soft copies of the content.

4. Ensure that a soft copy is provided in a CD.