criminal
Cheating / Fraud by Person
Someone has cheated you — through false promises, fake deals, fraudulent schemes, or by misusing your trust to take money or property.
Do this now
- 01Gather all evidence of fraud — agreements, receipts, messages
- 02File an FIR at the nearest police station
- 03Send a legal notice to the person demanding return of money
- 04Do NOT destroy any communication or documents
- 05If online fraud — also report at cybercrime.gov.in
- 06File a civil suit for recovery of money if needed
Evidence to collect
- Written agreements or contracts
- Payment receipts, bank transfer records
- Messages, emails, WhatsApp chats showing promises
- Witness statements
- Business cards or promotional material
- Photos or screenshots of advertisements
Documents you need
- FIR copy
- Legal notice copy
- Agreements or contracts
- Bank statements showing payments
- Communication proof
- ID proof
Where to complain
- Police Station — FIR for cheating
- Cyber Crime Portal — If online fraud
- Civil Court — Money recovery suit
- Consumer Forum — If related to product/service
- Economic Offences Wing — For large financial fraud
Laws that apply
- BNS Section 318 — Cheating
- BNS Section 319 — Cheating by personation
- BNS Section 316 — Criminal breach of trust
- BNS Section 308 — Extortion (if threats involved)
Understanding the issue
Cheating under Indian law means deceiving someone to gain money, property, or advantage through false promises or misrepresentation. This includes investment fraud, job fraud, marriage fraud, and fake deals. Criminal breach of trust applies when someone entrusted with your money or property misuses it. You can file both criminal (FIR) and civil (money recovery) cases.
When to see a lawyer
Consult a lawyer if the amount is significant, if police refuse to file FIR, or if you need to file a civil recovery suit. A lawyer can help with both criminal and civil proceedings.