Indian Government Rolls Out e-Zero FIR Initiative to Combat Cybercrime

Introduction

The digital age, while offering unprecedented convenience, has also paved the way for a surge in cyber fraud. In a significant move to counter this escalating threat, the Indian government launched the e-Zero FIR initiative on May 19, 2025 led by the MHA¹. This groundbreaking pilot project, initially rolled out in Delhi, aims to revolutionize how cybercrimes are reported and investigated, promising faster, more efficient, and jurisdiction-free registration of FIR². This system aligns with the BNSS³, 2023, which supports digital-first processes in criminal procedure. It also involves the integration of several systems, including the I4C’s NCRP⁴, which facilitates online reporting of cybercrimes, Delhi Police’s e-FIR system, and the NCRB⁵ Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS). This interconnected system is expected to improve collaboration among law enforcement agencies, improve data sharing, and ensure a more efficient response to criminal activities.

The essence of this initiative lies in its ability to automatically convert cybercrime complaints into FIRs. This applies particularly to complaints filed through the NCRP or via the dedicated 1930 cyber crime helpline. Initially, the system is designed to automatically generate Zero FIRs for complaints involving monetary losses exceeding INR 10 lakh. Once a complaint is verified, an FIR is instantly generated at the dedicated e-Crime Police Station, currently operational in Delhi, irrespective of the victim’s physical location. The complaint is then swiftly directed to the relevant territorial cybercrime police stations for further action. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, complainants have a three-day window to visit their nearest cyber crime police station to formally convert the e-Zero FIR into a standard FIR. While currently being tested in Delhi, this innovative system is slated for a gradual nationwide rollout, making it accessible to citizens across all States and Union Territories. This expansion is a cornerstone of India’s comprehensive strategy to bolster its cybersecurity infrastructure and realize the ambitious goal of a “Cyber-Secure Bharat.”

The e-Zero FIR process is a game-changer for victims of cyber fraud. By removing jurisdictional barriers, it empowers individuals to report crimes without the confusion and delays often associated with determining the correct police jurisdiction. This initiative significantly accelerates the initiation of criminal proceedings against cyber criminals, especially benefiting victims who may not be fully aware of the appropriate remedies. The automated FIR generation ensures a faster response from law enforcement authorities, dramatically improving the likelihood of recovering funds lost to fraud. 

Conclusion

The increasing sophistication and prevalence of cyber threats make initiatives like the e-Zero FIR system not just important, but absolutely crucial. This initiative clearly shows the Indian government’s strong commitment to data privacy, cybersecurity, and digital innovation. By allowing real-time, jurisdiction-free reporting of high-value cybercrimes, the system significantly strengthens the country’s cyber defence infrastructure. This also aligns India with the best practices used by other global jurisdictions. More broadly, the e-Zero FIR demonstrates how innovation in governance can proactively tackle new threats and empower victims, giving them a clearer path to justice.

Citations

1. Ministry of Home Affairs
2. First Information Report
3. Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 
4. National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
5. National Crime Record Bureau

Expositor(s): Adv. Archana Shukla