Cyberbullying and online harassment can feel deeply personal and isolating, but you’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not powerless.
With the increasing use of social media and messaging apps, online abuse is now a recognized and punishable offence under Indian law. If someone is threatening you, sharing your private information, or constantly harassing you online, you have the right to report it.
First, it’s important to understand what qualifies as cyberbullying. It’s not just “mean comments” or “online drama.” It could include constant threats, stalking, revenge porn, spreading fake rumors, or even creating fake profiles to harass you.
Whether it happens over WhatsApp, Instagram, email, or gaming apps, the intent is the same—to cause mental distress, fear, or harm.
India has specific legal provisions that cover various forms of online abuse. Here’s a quick look at how the law protects you:
| Type of Harassment | Legal Provision | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Repeated unwanted messages or stalking | Section 354D, IPC | Punishes online stalking or following a person digitally without consent |
| Sharing obscene content | Section 67 of the IT Act, 2000 | Makes it illegal to publish or transmit obscene material in electronic form |
| Criminal intimidation online | Section 507, IPC | Covers anonymous threats or abusive messages |
| Defamation (online trolling, slander) | Sections 499 & 500, IPC | Protects your reputation from fake and harmful claims online |
| Violation of privacy | Section 66E, IT Act | Penalizes capturing or sharing private images without consent |
Before you go to the authorities, try to gather and save evidence. This can include screenshots, chat logs, URLs of fake profiles, emails, and timestamps. You don’t need to be tech-savvy.
Just save what you can—it will help the police or cyber cell build your case.
Once you’re ready to report, there are two main ways to file a complaint in India.
| Where to File | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Online via Cyber Crime Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in) | Select the option for “Report Women/Child Related Crime” or “Other Cybercrime”. Fill the form, upload evidence, and submit. No FIR required immediately. |
| Nearest Police Station or Cyber Cell | You can file an FIR even if the crime didn’t happen in your city (Zero FIR). Carry a written complaint, your ID proof, and any evidence you’ve collected. |
If someone has misused your private photos or videos online, here’s a guide that explains what to do and how to protect your privacy: What to Do If Someone Misuses Your Photos or Videos Online
In many cases, filing through the National Cyber Crime Portal is quicker for women and children-related cases. The portal lets you file anonymously, especially if you’re reporting sensitive content like blackmail or revenge porn.
For other types of complaints, you may be contacted by your local police station for verification or follow-up.
If your social media account has been hacked or misused, you should also read this: Legal Steps to Take If Your Social Media Account Is Hacked
If you feel unsafe visiting the police station or are being threatened by someone you know, remember you can also email cyber cells directly. Most state police websites list contact information for their cybercrime wings.
In serious or urgent matters, calling the 112 emergency helpline or 181 (Women’s Helpline) can also help.
Once you file a complaint—whether online or offline—the authorities review your submission. If the complaint involves a cognizable offence like threats or stalking, the police can start an investigation without prior court approval.
In many cases, especially those filed through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, your local police station will contact you for further clarification or to record your statement.
They may reach out to the platform (like Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp) to obtain user data or ask you for more digital evidence. If the offence involves Section 354D IPC (online stalking) or Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (sharing obscene content), the cyber cell is legally empowered to track IP addresses, issue notices, and arrest if needed.
Sometimes, cases get delayed or police may refuse to file an FIR. In such cases, you can:
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Escalate to Higher Police Officials | Write to the SP or Commissioner of Police under Section 154(3) CrPC |
| Approach Judicial Magistrate | File a private complaint under Section 200 CrPC |
| Report to Women Commissions | Reach out to NCW or your State Women’s Commission |
| Seek Legal Help | Contact a lawyer to draft a notice or guide you through legal action |
If the harassment continues while your complaint is pending, don’t hesitate to call 112 (Emergency) or 1091 (Women Helpline). It’s also a good idea to inform close friends or family so they can help monitor the situation.
If you’re facing false claims, slander, or harassment online that harms your reputation, you may also want to read:
Online Defamation – What It Is and How to Respond
Online harassment isn’t just a technical issue—it’s a mental health and safety issue. You are not being “too sensitive,” and you don’t need to wait for it to get worse. India’s legal system offers real tools to fight back.
The first step is speaking up.
FAQs
1. Do I need a lawyer to file a cyberbullying complaint?
No, you can file it yourself online or at a police station. But legal help can be useful for follow-ups or court action.
2. Can I file the complaint anonymously?
Yes, for women and children, the Cyber Crime Portal allows anonymous filing in sensitive cases.
3. What if I don’t know who is harassing me online?
That’s okay. Cyber cells can investigate using IP addresses and digital footprints.
4. Can a minor file a complaint?
Yes, but it’s better if a parent or guardian files on their behalf.
5. How long does the process take?
It varies, but initial response usually comes within a few days of filing.
