Filing a cyber complaint is important to seek justice and bring perpetrators to the book. However, ensuring that the complaint is genuine and not based on false information is equally important. False complaints can lead to unwanted harassment of innocent individuals and waste the valuable resources of law enforcement agencies. In this blog post, we will explore what action will be taken if the cyber complainant reports any false complaint/information.
Penalties for Filing False Complaints
If a cyber complainant reports any false complaint/information, he/she can be penalised under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Information Technology Act, 2000. Section 182 of the IPC deals with false information, and it states that if someone gives false information to a public servant, they can be punished with imprisonment of up to 6 months or a fine of up to INR 1,000, or both.
Similarly, Section 66D of the Information Technology Act, 2000, deals with cheating by impersonation by using a computer resource, and it states that if someone cheats by personating, they can be punished with imprisonment of up to 3 years or a fine of up to INR 1,00,000, or both. Apart from these penalties, filing false complaints can also lead to civil lawsuits for defamation, harassment, and other damages.
Process for Verifying Complaints
To prevent false complaints and ensure that only genuine complaints are pursued, law enforcement agencies follow a rigorous process for verifying complaints. This process includes verifying the identity of the complainant, investigating the facts of the complaint, and gathering evidence to substantiate the complaint.
If the law enforcement agency finds that the complaint is false or malicious, they may initiate legal proceedings against the complainant for filing a false complaint. On the other hand, if the complaint is genuine and evidence is found to support it, the law enforcement agency will take appropriate action against the accused.
Conclusion
Making false complaints can lead to severe legal repercussions such as imprisonment, monetary fines, and civil litigation. To ensure that only legitimate complaints are taken up and to prevent false accusations, law enforcement agencies have implemented strict protocols for verifying complaints. When reporting a cybercrime, it is crucial for complainants to provide precise and honest details to avoid any legal consequences. This will aid in bringing the offenders to justice and fostering a safer digital space for everyone.
