Your Instagram posts disappear, your Facebook name is changed, or your WhatsApp starts sending strange messages.
These are not just technical glitches—they’re signs that your account might be hacked. Losing access to your social media account can feel frustrating, but if someone is misusing your name or data, it’s also a punishable offence under Indian law.
Account hacking is more than just inconvenience. It can lead to:
| Impact | Risk |
|---|---|
| Loss of personal data | Hackers can access private messages, photos, and contacts |
| Impersonation | Someone can pretend to be you and ask others for money |
| Reputation damage | Offensive or spam content may be posted in your name |
| Fraud and phishing | Hackers may trick your friends into sharing OTPs or payments |
Here’s what Indian laws say about it:
| Legal Provision | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Section 66C IT Act | Punishes identity theft—using someone else’s digital credentials |
| Section 66D IT Act | Covers cheating by impersonation online |
| Section 43 IT Act | Deals with unauthorized access to a computer or network |
| Section 420 IPC | Applies when hacking leads to fraud, cheating, or money loss |
If your account is hacked, act fast. Here’s what you should do:
| Step | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Try to reset your password | Recover control using email/phone before the hacker changes recovery details |
| Notify the platform | Report via Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter’s hacked account form |
| Inform your contacts | Let people know not to respond to suspicious messages from your account |
| Take screenshots | Save proof if anything damaging was posted or sent using your profile |
Once you’ve secured what you can, it’s time to file a complaint. You can:
| Where to Report | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Cyber Crime Portal | File a complaint under “Other Cyber Crime” with screenshots and account details |
| Police Station or Cyber Cell | File an FIR under Sections 66C and 66D of the IT Act. Ask for Zero FIR if you’re reporting from a different location |
| Call 1930 (if money is involved) | Use India’s cyber fraud helpline for quick financial blocking |
| Where to Report | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Cyber Crime Portal | File a complaint under “Other Cyber Crime” with screenshots and account details |
| Police Station or Cyber Cell | File an FIR under Sections 66C and 66D of the IT Act. Ask for Zero FIR if you’re reporting from a different location |
| Call 1930 (if money is involved) | Use India’s cyber fraud helpline for quick financial blocking |
If private photos or videos were leaked after hacking, also read: [What to Do If Someone Misuses Your Photos or Videos Online]
Once you’ve filed a complaint on the Cyber Crime Portal or at your local police station, your report is directed to the cybercrime unit. If the hacking involves identity theft or impersonation, your case may invoke Section 66C of the IT Act, while misuse of your account to cheat others may fall under Section 66D or even Section 420 IPC.
After submitting your complaint:
| Stage | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Verification | You may get a call from the cyber cell to confirm your identity and gather more details |
| Investigation | Police can trace the IP address used to log into your account or track suspicious activity |
| Platform Coordination | Authorities may work with Meta (Facebook/Instagram) or Twitter to retrieve your account or block the attacker |
If your hacked account is being used to spread fake news, threats, or blackmail, these could also invoke criminal charges like Sections 504 and 507 IPC for intimidation and harassment.
If your account is not recovered despite platform support, you still have legal options:
| Option | Legal Route |
|---|---|
| File a formal FIR | Required to trigger deeper investigation or get court intervention |
| Seek help through a Magistrate | Under Section 200 CrPC, the court can order the police to act |
| Approach NCW or CERT-In | If the case involves gender-based abuse or national security concerns |
| Send takedown notices | A lawyer can help you draft a legal notice to the platform under IT Rules |
In many cases, platforms respond faster if the user has a police complaint number or a court order.
If you’ve been defamed or threatened using your account, read this guide: Online Defamation – What It Is and How to Respond
Even if no money was stolen, hacking is a violation of your privacy and a threat to your digital identity. Timely legal reporting increases your chance of account recovery and stops further damage.
FAQs
1. Is hacking a social media account a criminal offence in India?
Yes, under Section 66C and 66D of the IT Act, it’s punishable with jail time and fines.
2. Can I file a complaint even if I recovered my account?
Yes. If it was misused, reporting is important for record and action.
3. What if police refuse to file an FIR?
You can escalate under Section 154(3) CrPC to the Superintendent or approach a Magistrate.
4. Will my identity be protected during the complaint?
Yes, especially in cases involving harassment or blackmail.
5. Can I get my Instagram or Facebook account back through legal help?
Yes. A complaint or legal notice often speeds up the recovery process.
