Cyberstalking Laws in India: How to Protect Yourself Legally

(2025 Guide)

Cyberstalking is increasing rapidly in India. From fake profiles to threats, tracking, unwanted messages, and online blackmail—any digital harassment is a serious crime. This guide explains your legal rights, Indian laws, punishment, and how to file a complaint.

1. What is Cyberstalking?

Cyberstalking means repeatedly harassing, threatening, monitoring or blackmailing someone online through:

• Fake accounts

• Unwanted messages

• Online threats

• Tracking using apps

• Posting personal photos without permission

• Blackmailing for money or compromise

If someone is disturbing you again and again online, it is cyberstalking.

2. Laws That Protect You from Cyberstalking in India

India has strict laws under the IT Act and IPC.

a) Section 354D IPC – Stalking (Online & Offline)

Punishment: Up to 3 years jail (first offence).

b) Section 354A / 354C IPC – Harassment & Voyeurism

Applies if someone posts your photos or videos without consent.

c) Section 66E IT Act – Violation of Privacy

Punishment: Up to 3 years jail + fine up to ₹2 lakh.

d) Section 67 & 67A IT Act – Obscene Content

Sharing obscene images/videos is a serious offence.

e) Section 507 IPC – Anonymous Threats

For threats from unknown numbers or fake profiles.

3. How to Protect Yourself from Cyberstalking

✔ Save All Evidence

Take screenshots of chats, IDs, posts, emails, threats.

✔ Block the Person Immediately

Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp all have block + report options.

✔ Change Privacy Settings

Make your profiles private, restrict unknown messages.

✔ Avoid Clicking Unknown Links

Stalkers sometimes use tracking links or malware.

4. How to File a Cyberstalking Complaint in India

Option 1: File Online (Fastest Method)

Go to: National Cyber Crime Portal
👉 https://cybercrime.gov.in (Government website)

Choose: Report Cybercrime → Women/Child Related Crime → File Complaint

Option 2: Visit Your Nearest Cyber Police Station

Provide screenshots, profile links, phone numbers, etc.

Option 3: File an FIR in Local Police Station

Cyberstalking is a cognizable offence—police must register FIR.

5. What Happens After You File a Complaint?

• Police trace the IP address

• Identify the accused

• Take down fake profiles

• Arrest the offender

• Court process starts based on sections applied

6. Punishment for Cyberstalking in India

Depending on the sections:

• Up to 3 years jail (354D IPC)

• Up to 5 years jail for repeated offences

• Fine up to ₹2–5 lakh (IT Act)

• Seizure of phone, laptop of accused

Cyberstalking is a serious crime — the law is strongly on your side.

7. How to Stay Safe Online (Practical Tips)

• Don’t share personal details publicly

• Use strong passwords

• Enable 2-step verification

• Avoid sharing private photos

• Use “Restrict” mode on Instagram

• Report fake accounts immediately

Conclusion

Cyberstalking is not just online mischief — it is a punishable offence under Indian law. If someone is harassing or threatening you online, you can take legal action immediately through the cybercrime portal or police.

You have every right to stay safe online.