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.

Mr.X, a teenager from City A, came to me distressed about an online fraud. He had booked a tarot reading session through X.social platform from a popular page run by Mr.Y. After making full payment through digital means, Mr.X was scheduled for a session on DD/MM/YYYY. However, when the appointment date arrived, Mr.Y completely disappeared. All messages on Y.messaging app went unanswered, Mr.X was blocked on X.social platform, and phone calls were refused. The teenager felt helpless, fearing parental disappointment and having no idea about legal recourse. This case represents a growing trend of online service frauds targeting vulnerable individuals, particularly young people who are hesitant to seek help from family members due to embarrassment or fear of judgment.

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 everything immediately – screenshots of conversations, payment receipts, profile information, and booking confirmations. Report the fraud to cyber crime portal within 24-48 hours. Contact your bank or payment gateway to dispute the transaction if possible. Don’t let embarrassment prevent you from seeking help from trusted adults.

Applicable Sections of Law

Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), this case falls under Section 318 (cheating), which addresses dishonest inducement to deliver property. Section 319 BNS covers cheating by personation if fake identity was used. Section 66D of Information Technology Act applies to online impersonation and cheating using computer resources. Under Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Section 173 allows for online FIR filing in cyber fraud cases, making it easier for victims to lodge complaints without physical presence at police stations.

If You Are the Complainant

• File cyber crime complaint immediately through online portal with all supporting documents
• Gather comprehensive evidence including screenshots, payment proofs, and communication records
• Contact payment gateway or bank to initiate chargeback process within stipulated timeframe
• Report the fraudulent social media accounts to platform administrators for immediate action
• Maintain detailed timeline of events and preserve all digital evidence securely

If You Are the Victim

• Don’t panic or feel ashamed – online fraud affects people of all ages and backgrounds
• Immediately change passwords if any personal information was shared during booking process
• Block and report the fraudster’s accounts across all social media platforms
• Inform trusted family members or friends who can provide emotional and practical support
• Monitor bank statements closely for any unauthorized transactions and report suspicious activity

How the Police Behave in Such Cases

Police typically treat online service fraud seriously, especially when proper documentation is provided. They may initially suggest civil remedy but cyber crime cells are increasingly proactive. Officers usually ask for comprehensive evidence including digital transactions, communication proof, and social media evidence. Response time varies but cyber crime complaints receive faster attention than traditional fraud cases due to specialized handling procedures.

FAQs People Normally Have

Q: Can I get my money back?
A: Yes, through legal action, chargeback mechanisms, or police recovery efforts.

Q: Will my parents find out?
A: Not necessarily, but family support often helps in faster resolution.

Q: Is this really a crime?
A: Yes, online service fraud is a cognizable offense under BNS and IT Act.

Q: How long does investigation take?
A: Typically 3-6 months depending on evidence quality and suspect cooperation.

What Evidence Is Required?

• Screenshots of initial conversation and booking confirmation
• Digital payment receipts and transaction details
• Social media profile information and posts
• Communication history across all platforms
• Proof of service non-delivery on scheduled date
• Witness statements if others were also defrauded
• Bank statements showing debited amount

How Long Will the Investigation Take?

Investigation duration typically ranges from 3-6 months for online fraud cases. Cyber crime units work faster than traditional police stations due to specialized expertise. Cases with strong digital evidence and cooperative banks resolve quicker. Complex cases involving multiple victims or interstate operations may take 8-12 months. Timeline depends on suspect’s cooperation and evidence quality.

Advocate Sudhir Rao, Supreme Court of India