Cyber Crime, Fraud & Online Scam Lawyer
in Mumbai & Pune
Victim of online fraud? Account frozen? Received a cyber cell notice? Our advocates represent individuals and businesses across Maharashtra in all cybercrime matters.
Cybercrime against individuals is governed by the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) and the Indian Penal Code, 1860. The IT Act emphasises severe sanctions protecting e-governance, e-banking, and e-commerce sectors. Several provisions of the IPC and IT Act overlap, and the scope of the IT Act has been expanded to cover all contemporary communication technologies — including cryptocurrency, social media, and AI-driven fraud.
Key Legal Provisions
Under the IT Act, 2000
- ▸Section 65: Tampering with Computer Source Documents
- ▸Section 66: Hacking Computer Systems and Data Alteration
- ▸Section 67: Publishing Offensive Information
- ▸Section 70: Unauthorized Access to Protected Systems
- ▸Section 72: Breach of Confidentiality and Privacy
- ▸Section 73: False Digital Signature Certificates
Under the IPC / BNS
- ▸Section 503 IPC: Sending Threatening Messages over Email
- ▸Section 499 IPC: Sending Defamatory Emails
- ▸Section 463 IPC: Forgery of Electronic Records
- ▸Section 420 IPC: Bogus Websites and Cyber Fraud
- ▸Section 468 IPC: Email Spoofing
Types of Cyber Crime We Handle
Card Frauds
Credit and debit card fraud targeting unsuspecting cardholders in an increasingly cashless society.
Ransomware
Malicious software that encrypts victim data and demands ransom — targeting corporations and individuals alike.
Phishing Attacks
Sophisticated social engineering attacks exploiting human vulnerabilities to steal credentials and funds.
Mobile Phone Crimes
Fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized access exploiting the convenience of mobile devices.
Cyber Defamation
Defamatory statements spread rapidly via social media, causing severe reputational harm.
Social Media Crimes
Evolving criminal activity on social platforms — from impersonation to financial scams.
Bank Account Freeze
Accounts frozen due to court orders, tax liens, or criminal investigations — we navigate the legal process to restore access.
AI & ML Compliance
Algorithmic bias audits, IP protection for AI models, and regulatory compliance for AI deployment in India and global markets.
Cryptocurrency & USDT Fraud — How a Case Moves
Selling USDT peer-to-peer isn't a crime. But if a buyer's payment turns out to be tainted, your bank can freeze the account — and the cyber cell can name you in the FIR. The earlier a lawyer steps in, the better the outcome.
Bank or exchange flags a transaction linked to tainted funds.
Cyber cell issues notice under BNSS 94 or bank freezes account.
Lawyer steps in — the earlier, the better. Most cases turn here.
Account unfrozen, FIR quashed, or proceedings closed.
Our Legal Services
Account Unfreezing
BNSS 106 petitions before the competent Magistrate to lift bank freezes and restore access to funds.
FIR Quashing & Anticipatory Bail
High Court petitions under Section 528 BNSS to quash FIRs; anticipatory bail applications before Sessions Court and High Court.
PMLA / ED Proceedings Defence
Representation before the Enforcement Directorate, PMLA Special Courts, and the Appellate Tribunal for Money Laundering.
Cyber Cell & EOW Representation
Appearances before the Cyber Cell, Economic Offences Wing, and DPDP-related proceedings.
Recovery Suits Against Fraudulent Platforms
Civil suits and consumer complaints against fraudulent crypto exchanges, token issuers, and investment platforms.
VAPT & Website Policy Advisory
Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing legal advisory, website policy drafting, and GDPR/IT Act compliance audits.
How to File a Complaint on cybercrime.gov.in
The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal is India's official platform (managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs) to report cybercrime online — 24×7, from anywhere in India.
Visit the Portal
Go to cybercrime.gov.in — India's official National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, managed by MHA.
Select Complaint Type
Choose "Report Other Cyber Crime" for financial fraud, phishing, ransomware, social media crimes, etc. For child-related crimes, use the dedicated section.
Register & Fill Details
Create an account with your mobile number. Fill in the incident details — date, type of crime, financial loss, and details of the accused (if known).
Upload Evidence
Attach screenshots, transaction records, emails, WhatsApp chats, and any communication with the fraudster. Strong evidence speeds up investigation.
Submit & Note Complaint ID
Submit the complaint and save your Complaint ID. You can track the status online. The complaint is forwarded to the relevant State Cyber Cell.
Follow Up / File FIR
If no action is taken within a reasonable time, escalate by filing an FIR at your local Cyber Crime Police Station. We assist at every step.
Need help filing your complaint?
Our advocates assist you in preparing evidence, drafting the complaint, and following up with the Cyber Crime Cell to ensure your case is taken up promptly.
How to Prevent Cyber Crime
Individual Protection Tips
- ▸Use strong, unique passwords and PIN
- ▸Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- ▸Avoid suspicious email links and WhatsApp task-paying groups
- ▸Avoid unsafe online games and unverified apps
- ▸Remember: Digital Arrest is illegal in India
- ▸Keep software and apps updated regularly
- ▸Monitor financial accounts regularly for unusual activity
Enterprise-Level Prevention
- ▸Implement zero-trust security architecture
- ▸Deploy firewalls and intrusion prevention systems
- ▸Use Extended Detection and Response (XDR)
- ▸Conduct regular vulnerability assessments (VAPT)
- ▸Train employees in cybersecurity awareness
- ▸Maintain secure, encrypted data backups
Prevention is more cost-effective than incident recovery.
Steps to Take if You're a Victim of Cyber Fraud
Gather Evidence
Collect all emails, transaction records, screenshots, and communication with the fraudster to build a strong case.
File a Complaint
File on cybercrime.gov.in or at the Cyber Crime Cell. Filing early ensures your case is registered and investigated promptly.
Consult a Legal Expert
Contact us to discuss your case. We provide guidance on the best course of action and help you pursue legal remedies.
Strengthen Cybersecurity
While we handle the legal side, we also advise on protecting your data and preventing future incidents.
Why Choose Aequitas Legis Associates?
We bring extensive experience and specialised knowledge in handling cybercrime cases. Our team is dedicated to helping victims regain their losses and achieve justice.
Personalised Legal Support
Each case is unique — we offer a tailored approach to every client's needs.
Proactive Strategy
We work quickly to file complaints and initiate legal action to recover your losses.
Proven Track Record
One of Pune & Mumbai's most trusted law firms for cyber fraud and online scam cases.
The Legal Framework
Crypto-related criminal proceedings in India now run under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 — the successor to the CrPC. Key provisions include Section 94 (production of documents / freezing directions) and Section 106 (orders for security / restoration of access). FIRs are typically registered under BNS Sections 318 and 319 (cheating and cheating by personation).
Where the transaction value crosses the threshold under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA), the Enforcement Directorate may issue a summons, attach property, or file a complaint before the PMLA Special Court. The burden of proof in PMLA proceedings is reversed — the accused must establish that the proceeds of crime are untainted. Early legal intervention is therefore critical.
The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act) and the Information Technology Act, 2000 may also be invoked where the fraud involved unauthorised access to accounts or misuse of personal data.
AEQUITAS LEGIS ASSOCIATES | Advocates & Solicitors | Pune | Mumbai | Delhi
This article is prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or a legal opinion on any specific matter. Readers should seek independent advice from qualified counsel before acting on any of the matters discussed.