One of my clients recently had a case which I am explaining below and if you are stuck in such similar situation, here is what to do.

Note: Due to attorney-client privilege, I cannot disclose complete case details or identify the actual parties involved. However, I am sharing the essential facts and legal approach so that if you find yourself in a similar situation, you can understand the available solutions and legal remedies.

Ms. X, a student from City A, approached me after receiving continuous online threats and harassment through various social media platforms and messaging applications. The threats included explicit messages, morphed photographs, and intimidating content that caused severe mental distress. The perpetrator, Mr. Y, was using multiple fake accounts to send threatening messages, including threats of physical harm and reputation damage. Ms. X had been enduring this harassment for several months, which affected her studies and mental well-being. The cybercriminal also attempted to extort money by threatening to share private conversations and fabricated content with her family and college authorities. After documenting all evidence and filing appropriate complaints, we successfully secured relief through both police action and legal remedies available under Indian cyber laws.

Advice in Such Cases

Consult with Lawyer: The very basic and important step to start is talk to Lawyer / advocate. You should not hesitate in paying his consultation fee i.e. might be in range of Rs. 10,000 to 50,000 depends case to case. He is helping you in this situation to come out. He is expert in the domain and can help you explain the procedure which you might have never explored. A good lawyer can get the issues resolved much faster than you think.

Document all evidence immediately by taking screenshots with timestamps. Report the matter to cyber crime police within 24-48 hours of receiving threats. Block the perpetrator on all platforms but preserve evidence before doing so. Inform trusted family members or friends about the situation for emotional support and witness testimony if required.

Applicable Sections of Law

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Section 351 deals with criminal intimidation, while Section 356 covers assault or use of criminal force. Section 79 of BNS addresses word, gesture or act intended to insult modesty of a woman. The Information Technology Act, 2000 Section 67 covers publishing or transmitting obscene material, and Section 66A deals with sending offensive messages. Under Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Section 173 provides for electronic evidence collection, and Section 35 allows for cognizable offenses to be investigated without warrant.

If You Are the Complainant

• File a complaint immediately at the nearest cyber crime police station with all documented evidence
• Submit a written complaint detailing the timeline of events and impact on your mental health
• Request for immediate action to trace and arrest the perpetrator through digital forensics
• Provide all relevant account details, phone numbers, and platform information used by the accused
• Follow up regularly with investigating officers and maintain records of all communications

If You Are the Victim

• Immediately change all passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all your accounts
• Report the harassing accounts to respective social media platforms for immediate suspension
• Seek counseling or therapy to deal with the psychological impact of online harassment
• Maintain a detailed diary of all incidents including dates, times, and nature of threats received
• Avoid responding to or engaging with the perpetrator as it may escalate the situation further

How the Police Behave in Such Cases

Cyber crime police typically take online threat cases seriously, especially when involving women victims. They will register an FIR under relevant sections and initiate digital forensics investigation to trace the perpetrator. Police may coordinate with social media platforms and internet service providers to obtain account details and IP addresses. Investigation officers usually conduct preliminary inquiry to verify the authenticity of complaints and gather technical evidence for prosecution.

FAQs People Normally Have

Can police trace anonymous social media accounts? Yes, police can trace anonymous accounts through IP addresses, device identifiers, and platform cooperation during investigations.

How long does it take to resolve cyber threat cases? Typically 3-6 months depending on complexity, evidence availability, and cooperation from platforms.

Can I get compensation for mental harassment? Yes, you can claim damages for mental trauma and loss through civil remedies alongside criminal proceedings.

What if the threats come from international numbers? Police can coordinate with international agencies through mutual legal assistance treaties for cross-border investigations.

What Evidence Is Required?

• Screenshots of threatening messages with visible timestamps and sender information
• Call recordings or voice messages containing threats (if legally obtained)
• Email headers showing sender details and routing information
• Social media profile details and account information of the perpetrator
• Witness statements from friends or family who observed the harassment
• Medical records showing psychological impact or treatment sought
• Bank statements if financial extortion was involved

How Long Will the Investigation Take?

Cyber crime investigations typically take 60-90 days for initial inquiry and evidence collection. Complex cases involving multiple platforms or international elements may extend to 6-12 months. Police usually provide regular updates every 15-30 days during active investigation. Court proceedings may take additional 1-2 years depending on case complexity and evidence presentation.

Advocate Sudhir Rao, Supreme Court of India