The biggest factor in recovering money after cyber fraud is speed. The first 30–60 minutes are the "golden hour" when freezing the money is most likely.
Four immediate steps
- Call 1930 — the national cybercrime helpline; keep transaction details ready
- File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in and save the complaint number
- Get your card/UPI blocked via your bank's customer care
- Do not delete the scammer's SMS/numbers/screenshots — they are evidence
What to avoid
- Fake "refund helpline" numbers found via search — often scammers themselves
- Never share OTP, PIN, CVV — banks never ask
- Never install screen-sharing apps (AnyDesk etc.) on a stranger's instruction
What happens next
The cyber cell investigates; frozen money returns via bank/court process. Also file an FIR at the local police station — useful for insurance/bank disputes.
