Cheated online? Your first hour, step by step

If money has left your account because of a fraud, do not feel ashamed and do not wait. Fraud networks move money quickly through many accounts, and reporting early is what lets banks freeze it before it is withdrawn.

The first hour

1. Call 1930. This is the National Cyber Crime Helpline. Give the amount, time, the account the money went to, and the transaction ID or UTR.
2. Call your bank using the number on your card or the official app. Ask them to block the card, UPI or net banking, and to note the fraud complaint.
3. File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in with screenshots of chats, call logs, the payment receipt and the scammer's numbers or UPI IDs.
4. Do not delete anything. Messages, call history and apps are evidence.

Next, secure yourself

• Change passwords and UPI PINs from a device you trust. Log out other sessions.
• If you installed an unknown app, uninstall it and consider a factory reset.
• If the scammer has your documents, tell your bank and watch for new SIMs or loans in your name.

Keep ready

Bank statement showing the debit, transaction ID, scammer's phone number, UPI ID or account number, screenshots, and your ID. Note your complaint number from 1930 and the portal.

Never pay anyone who offers to "recover" your money for a fee. Recovery agents on social media are a second scam.