Understanding Online Bank Fraud in India
In India, online banking and digital transactions have grown exponentially — and so have cyber frauds. From phishing messages and fake bank calls to UPI frauds, criminals use deceptive tactics to gain access to personal financial data.
If you’re wondering what to do if your bank account is hacked or money stolen online, the first rule is simple: act fast and follow the legal process.
According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), customers are protected against unauthorized transactions if they report promptly and comply with security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take If Your Bank Account Is Hacked
When your bank account is compromised, timing is everything. Follow these steps immediately:
1️⃣ Contact Your Bank and Block the Account
- Call your bank’s official helpline or visit your branch immediately.
- Request to block or freeze all transactions on the affected account.
- Obtain a written acknowledgment or complaint number from the bank.
- Ask for the dispute resolution form for unauthorized electronic transactions.
Tip: Always call the number printed on your debit/credit card or the official website — never trust numbers shared in SMS or social media.
2️⃣ Report Unauthorized Transactions in Writing
- Send an email or written complaint to the branch manager describing the fraudulent transaction.
- Attach transaction details, bank statement, ID proof, and screenshots (if available).
- As per RBI Circular (Customer Protection – Limiting Liability of Customers, 2017), banks must respond within 10 working days.
How to File a Cybercrime Complaint Online
If money has been stolen online, the next legal step is to file a cybercrime complaint.
1️⃣ Use the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
Visit the official Cyber Crime Reporting Portal managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
Steps:
- Select “Report Other Cybercrime” → “Financial Fraud.”
- Fill in your personal and transaction details.
- Upload screenshots, emails, or messages as evidence.
- Submit the complaint and save the acknowledgment number.
You can also call the Cybercrime Helpline Number: 1930 for immediate assistance.
2️⃣ Visit the Local Cyber Police Station
In Patna or other districts of Bihar, you can visit the Cyber Crime Police Station and file a written FIR.
Carry these documents:
- Bank statement showing fraudulent transaction
- ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
- Copy of your written complaint to the bank
- Screenshots or message proofs
Legal Tip: Under Sections 43 and 66 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, unauthorized access, data theft, and online deception are punishable offenses.
Legal Remedies Under Indian Law
Information Technology Act, 2000
Relevant sections include:
- Section 43: Unauthorized access or damage to computer systems.
- Section 66: Hacking or dishonest use of computer resources.
- Section 66C: Identity theft (using another person’s digital signature/password).
- Section 66D: Cheating by impersonation via computer resources.
Indian Penal Code, 1860
Cyber frauds also attract Sections 419 & 420 (Cheating) and Sections 465 & 468 (Forgery) of the IPC.
RBI Guidelines on Unauthorized Electronic Transactions
As per the RBI Circular dated July 6, 2017, if:
- You report the fraud within 3 working days, you bear zero liability.
- Report between 4–7 days, your liability is limited to ₹5,000–₹25,000 (depending on account type).
- Delay beyond 7 days makes you liable for the entire loss.
Case Reference: ICICI Bank Ltd. v. Shanti Devi Sharma (Delhi High Court, 2019) — the court ordered the bank to refund money lost due to an unauthorized online transaction, holding the bank accountable for inadequate security.
How to Recover Your Lost Money
- Report to Bank & Cyber Police – Submit complaints to both.
- Follow Up Regularly – Track your complaint status online or via the branch.
- Escalate to RBI Ombudsman – If unresolved within 30 days, file at RBI Ombudsman.
- Maintain Evidence – Preserve every email, screenshot, and acknowledgment.
- Consult a Lawyer – For persistent cases, approach a cybercrime lawyer in Bihar for a legal notice or consumer forum case.
Preventive Tips to Avoid Future Cyber Frauds
- Never share OTPs, PINs, or passwords.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or emails.
- Verify bank messages and websites before logging in.
- Enable SMS & Email alerts for transactions.
- Use two-factor authentication for all online banking.
- Keep your antivirus and phone security updated.
When to Consult a Cybercrime or Banking Lawyer
If your complaint remains unresolved or your bank denies responsibility, consult a qualified cyber law advocate in Bihar.
A legal expert can:
- Draft official notices to the bank or ombudsman.
- File a consumer complaint for deficiency in service.
- Represent you before the Cyber Appellate Tribunal or District Consumer Commission.
Case Study: Cyber Fraud in Patna
A Patna-based school teacher received an SMS stating her KYC was due. She clicked the link and entered her bank details. Within minutes, ₹25,000 was debited.
She immediately blocked her account, filed a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in, and submitted proof to her bank. Following the RBI’s July 2017 guidelines, the bank refunded the money within 10 days.
Conclusion – Stay Alert, Act Fast, and Know Your Rights
Digital banking offers convenience, but it also demands vigilance.
If your bank account is hacked or money stolen online, take immediate action — inform your bank, file a cybercrime complaint, and follow legal remedies under the IT Act and RBI regulations.
Facing online banking fraud? Get expert legal help today.
Connect with a verified cyber law advocate in Bihar to recover your money and safeguard your financial rights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What should I do first if my bank account is hacked?
Immediately block your account, change passwords, and inform your bank in writing.
Q2: How do I file a cybercrime complaint in India?
Visit cybercrime.gov.in or your local cyber police station.
Q3: Can I get my stolen money back from the bank?
Yes, RBI guidelines protect customers if they report promptly within 3 working days.
Q4: Is hacking a punishable offense under Indian law?
Yes, under Sections 43 and 66 of the IT Act, hacking is a criminal offense.
Q5: What documents are needed for a cybercrime complaint?
Bank statement, ID proof, screenshot of fraudulent messages, and complaint copy.
Q6: How long does it take to recover stolen money?
Usually 7–10 days after the bank’s investigation, if reported within the prescribed time.
Q7: Who investigates cyber banking fraud in Bihar?
The Cyber Crime Police Station under Bihar Police or local cyber units.
Q8: How can I protect my bank account from hacking?
Use strong passwords, avoid sharing OTPs, and never click on suspicious links.
References
- National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal – cybercrime.gov.in
- Reserve Bank of India – Customer Protection Guidelines
- Ministry of Home Affairs – Cyber Safety Resources
- ICICI Bank Ltd. v. Shanti Devi Sharma (Delhi HC, 2019)
Author Bio
About the Author – Advocate Tabish Ahmad
Advocate Tabish Ahmad (B.A. LL.B., LL.M., Diploma in Cyber Law – GLC Mumbai) is a Certified Cyber Law Practitioner and practising Advocate at the Patna High Court. He specializes in Cyber Crime, GST Litigation, and Tax Appeals, with extensive experience in representing clients before judicial and quasi-judicial forums.
He serves as President of the Cyber Lawyers Association and is a Member of the Advocates’ Association, Patna High Court. As a Mentor at the Indian Tax Academy and JurisCrack, he guides young lawyers and students in cyber and tax law practice.
Author of several books on Cyber Crimes, Taxation, and GST, Advocate Tabish Ahmad is recognized for his practical insights on digital law, data privacy, and cyber fraud defence.
