The Complete Guide to Filing an Online FIR in India

1. What is an FIR and When Should You File It?

An FIR (First Information Report) is the first official step to report serious crimes (cognizable offenses) where police can arrest without a warrant. You should file an FIR immediately for:

• Theft (mobile, wallet, vehicle, documents)

• Cybercrimes (online fraud, hacking, harassment)

• Violent crimes (assault, domestic violence)

• Harassment (stalking, threats, blackmail)

2. How to File Online FIR: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Choose the Right Platform

• For cybercrimes: Use the National Cyber Crime Portal

• For other crimes: Use your state police portal (see list below)

Step 2: Register/Login

• Provide mobile number and verify via OTP

• Enter basic details (name, address, ID proof)

Step 3: File Your Complaint

1. Select complaint type (theft/cybercrime/etc.)

2. Enter:

   • Incident date, time and location

   • Accused details (if known)

   • Complete description of the crime

3. Upload evidence:

   • For theft: Purchase bills, photos of stolen items

   • For cybercrime: Screenshots, transaction IDs

   • For harassment: Call recordings, messages

Step 4: Submit and Track

• Get a reference number

• Download acknowledgment receipt

• Track status through portal/SMS

3. State-wise Online FIR Portals

Here are direct links to file online complaints:

State	Portal Link	Special Features
Delhi	Delhi Police	Lost document reporting
Maharashtra	Maharashtra Police	Full online FIR
Karnataka	Karnataka Police	Status tracking
Tamil Nadu	TN Cyber Crime	Cybercrime focus
Uttar Pradesh	UP Police	Vehicle theft reporting
West Bengal	Kolkata Police	Women's safety focus

Note: Some states only allow online complaints for specific crimes like theft or cybercrime.

4. What Happens After Filing?

• Police will verify details within 24 hours

• You may be called to the station for statement

• Investigation begins once FIR is registered

• Get regular updates via portal/SMS

5. If Police Don't Take Action

1. Wait 24-48 hours for portal complaints

2. Escalate to:

   • Police Commissioner (for cities)

   • Superintendent of Police (for rural areas)

3. Last resort options:

   • File complaint at Centralized Public Grievance Portal

   • Approach local Magistrate under Section 156(3) CrPC/193(3) BNS

6. Important Tips

✔ Act fast: File within 24 hours for best evidence

✔ Preserve evidence: Don't delete messages/emails

✔ Follow up: Check status every 3-4 days

✔ For emergencies: Always call 100 first

7. Special Cases

• For women's safety complaints: Use state women's helpline numbers

• For financial fraud: Call bank immediately + report to cyber cell

• For lost documents: Many states have separate lost document portals

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I file anonymously?

A: No, but you can request confidentiality in harassment cases.

Q: Is online FIR valid in court?

A: Yes, it has the same legal value as physical FIR.

Q: What if I made a mistake in my complaint?

A: Contact the investigating officer to correct details.

9. Need Help? Important Contacts

• National Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930

• Women's Helpline: 181

• Emergency: 112

• Legal Aid: State Legal Services Authority

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