Got a threatening message from a cloned Facebook account? Lost money to a fake eSewa or Khalti “cashback” link? You’re not alone and yes, you can do something about it.
In fiscal year 2082/83 alone, Nepal Police’s Cyber Bureau received over 20,000 cybercrime complaints the highest ever recorded. Facebook and Messenger misuse topped the list, followed closely by TikTok and WhatsApp scams.
This guide walks you through exactly how to report cybercrime in Nepal who to contact, what documents you need, and mistakes to avoid so your complaint actually gets taken seriously.
What Counts as Cybercrime in Nepal?
Before you report, make sure your case actually falls under the Cyber Bureau’s scope. Common cases in Nepal include:
- Online financial fraud : fake QR codes, eSewa/Khalti scams, OTP theft, fake investment schemes
- Hacked or cloned accounts : Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, email, or banking apps
- Sextortion and obscene content : blackmail using private photos/videos
- Fake job offers : especially foreign employment scams circulated via WhatsApp and Telegram
- Social media defamation : fake profiles, doctored images, character attacks
- Cyberstalking and harassment : repeated threats or unwanted contact online
If your case is purely offline (physical theft, in-person fraud with no digital element), it goes to your local police station instead.
Step 1: Secure Yourself First
Before filing anything:
- Stop responding to the scammer if continuing contact feels risky
- Do NOT delete messages, the fake profile, or transaction records this is your evidence
- Do NOT share OTPs, passwords, or private photos with anyone claiming to be “investigating” your case over the phone. Real Cyber Bureau officers won’t ask for these.
- If there’s an active threat to your safety, call Police Control: 100 immediately
Step 2: Collect Your Evidence
A weak complaint with no proof usually goes nowhere. Gather:
| Evidence Type | What to Save |
|---|---|
| Screenshots | Full conversation/post with visible date, username, URL |
| Full URLs | Complete link to the profile, post, or page not just the username |
| Transaction proof | Bank/wallet statement, transaction ID, screenshots of payment |
| Identity document | Your citizenship certificate, national ID, or passport |
| Timeline | A simple written account of what happened, in order |
Pro tip: Take screenshots on your phone using the full-screen method (not cropped) so dates and URLs stay visible this is often the first thing investigators check.
Step 3: Choose Where to File Your Complaint
You have four options depending on your situation:
Option A: Online Complaint Portal
Visit cyberbureau.nepalpolice.gov.np and use the official reporting form. You’ll typically choose from categories like obscene content, financial fraud, or account recovery, then upload your evidence and ID copy.
Option B: Email
Send your complaint with evidence and ID attached to cyberbureau@nepalpolice.gov.np
Option C: Visit in Person
Go directly to the Cyber Bureau, Nepal Police Headquarters, Bhotahiti, Kathmandu. Best option if your case is serious (sextortion, large financial loss) since you can explain details face-to-face.
Option D: Nearest District Police Office
If you’re outside Kathmandu Valley (Pokhara, Biratnagar, etc.), file at your nearest district police office or the Cyber Crime Investigation Division of your Provincial Police Office. They’ll coordinate with the central Cyber Bureau.
Cyber Bureau Contacts (verify current number on the official site before calling):
- Police Control: 100
- Toll-free: 16600141516
- Information officers: 9851286770 / 9851286771
- Email: cyberbureau@nepalpolice.gov.np
Step 4: What Happens After You File
There’s no fixed guaranteed timeline this depends on your case type, evidence quality, and current workload. What typically happens:
- Your complaint and evidence get reviewed
- The Bureau may contact you for clarification or more evidence
- For financial fraud, they may coordinate with the bank/wallet provider
- Serious cases get forwarded for formal investigation
Keep a copy of everything you submit including the date and method you used in case you need to follow up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Deleting the scammer’s messages or profile before reporting
- Only saving the username instead of the full URL
- Sending money to try to “recover” your loss through an unofficial third party
- Assuming a case guarantees your money will be recovered it doesn’t, but it starts the legal process
- Publicly accusing someone by name on social media before filing this can complicate your own case
Important Links:
- Nepal Government Portal Allegedly Breached: 462,600 Citizens Data
- Cybersecurity in Nepal 2026
- Ultimate LinkFinder Cheat Sheet
- Beware Of The Latest Online Scams
FAQ
Yes, filing a complaint doesn’t have an official fee. Be cautious of anyone asking for money to “expedite” your case that’s a red flag itself.
There’s no fixed official timeline. It depends on your case type and evidence. Financial fraud and sextortion cases are usually prioritized.
Yes. File at your nearest district police office or provincial Cyber Crime Investigation Division you don’t need to travel to Bhotahiti.
Report it as a “hacked account” case with the Cyber Bureau, and separately use the platform’s own account recovery process do both simultaneously for the best chance.
No the Cyber Bureau requires an identity document to process a formal complaint. However, your information isn’t made public.
Been targeted by an online scam recently? Drop your situation in the comments (no personal details) I’ll point you to the right resource. And if you haven’t already, check our guide on spotting phishing messages before they cost you.
