Cheating by Impersonation in India – Fake social media profile created in your name? Learn cheating by impersonation laws in India, punishments, cyber complaint steps, and prevention explained clearly.

Why Impersonation Is No Longer a Rare Problem

Impersonation is no longer limited to big financial scams or criminal gangs. Today, it has quietly entered ordinary lives through social media and digital platforms. A person does not need technical skills or money to impersonate someone online. A few photos, a name, and a free account are often enough.

This is why cases of fake Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp profiles are increasing rapidly. The damage is not always financial. In many cases, the real harm is to reputation, dignity, mental peace, and family relationships.

Most people facing impersonation are not looking for legal theory. They want clear answers to very practical questions:
Is this a crime? Which law applies? What punishment exists? What exactly should be done? What happens after a cyber complaint?

This blog answers all of that in one place, following the VOICE OF OSP approach—from concept, to law, to real-life action, to prevention.

What Is Cheating by Impersonation?

Cheating by impersonation means pretending to be another person with the intention to deceive. The law is not concerned with harmless pretending or jokes. It becomes a legal issue only when false identity is used knowingly and dishonestly.

In simple terms, impersonation becomes a crime when:

• Someone uses another person’s name, image, or identity
• The purpose is to mislead others
• The act causes or is capable of causing harm, confusion, or wrongful gain

Creating a fake social media profile in someone else’s name clearly falls within this definition because it misrepresents identity and affects how others perceive the real person.

Why the Law Treats Impersonation Seriously

Identity is the base of trust. Online and offline, people decide whom to believe, talk to, or associate with based on identity. When that identity is misused, trust collapses quickly.

Impersonation causes:

• Reputation damage
• Emotional stress
• Social embarrassment
• Fear and confusion

Because digital content spreads fast, even a short-lived fake profile can create long-lasting consequences. Indian law recognises this reality and addresses impersonation through both criminal law and cyber law.

Laws Related to Cheating by Impersonation in India

Impersonation is not covered by just one legal provision. Different laws apply depending on how the impersonation happens and what role identity plays.

Cheating by Personation under Criminal Law

Under Indian criminal law, cheating by impersonation is covered by Section 319 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the earlier IPC Sections 416 and 419.

This provision applies when a person knowingly pretends to be someone else, or substitutes one person for another, with dishonest intention. The law does not require financial loss in every case. Deception itself is sufficient.

Punishment under this section can extend to:

• Imprisonment up to 5 years, or
• Fine, or
• Both

This section applies even if impersonation happens offline, but it is often used alongside cyber law provisions in online cases.

Online / Digital Impersonation under the IT Act

When impersonation happens through social media, emails, phone calls, or any electronic communication, Section 66D of the Information Technology Act, 2000 becomes central.

This section specifically deals with cheating by impersonation using a computer or communication device. Fake social media profiles, phishing messages, and impersonation through digital platforms fall squarely within this provision.

Punishment under Section 66D includes:

• Imprisonment up to 3 years, and
• Fine up to ₹1,00,000, or
• Both

For most fake Instagram or Facebook profile cases, this is the primary cyber law applied.

Identity Theft and Misuse of Digital Identity

Many impersonation cases also involve misuse of another person’s photos, passwords, or digital identity elements. In such situations, Section 66C of the IT Act may apply.

This section addresses identity theft and unauthorised use of digital credentials. When someone copies photos or personal data to create a fake profile, the act goes beyond impersonation and becomes identity misuse.

The punishment under this provision can extend to:

• Imprisonment up to 3 years, and
• Fine

Often, cyber cases involve both Section 66C and Section 66D, depending on facts.

Real-Life Example: Fake Instagram Profile of a Woman

Consider a very common situation.

A woman has a public Instagram account with normal photos. Someone downloads these photos and creates a fake account using her name. The fake account starts messaging strangers and behaving inappropriately.

Soon:

• People start questioning her behaviour
• Family members become worried
• She feels embarrassed and unsafe

Legally, this situation involves online impersonation and identity misuse. Emotionally, it creates fear and confusion. Practically, the victim wants to know what to do next.

What Should Be Done First (Most People Get This Wrong)

The first reaction in such cases is usually anger. Many people immediately message the impersonator or post public warnings. While understandable, this reaction often worsens the problem.

The correct first response is calm and controlled. Direct interaction alerts the impersonator and gives them a chance to delete evidence or escalate the misuse.

The next priority is preserving evidence. This is crucial. Screenshots should be taken of:

• The fake profile
• Username and profile URL
• Profile photo, bio, posts
• Messages sent by the fake account

These screenshots should clearly show date and time. They should not be edited, cropped, or annotated.

Evidence is what allows platforms and authorities to act.

Reporting the Fake Profile on the Platform

Before involving authorities, impersonation should always be reported on the platform where it exists. Social media platforms have dedicated mechanisms for impersonation complaints.

The reporting process generally involves:

• Selecting the impersonation option
• Indicating that the account is pretending to be you or someone else
• Providing proof of identity if requested

In many cases, the platform removes the fake profile within a short time. However, if the account reappears or causes serious harm, further steps become necessary.

How to File a Cyber Complaint in India

India’s cyber complaint system is designed to help ordinary citizens. Filing a complaint does not automatically mean repeated police visits or harassment.

The process broadly involves:

• Submitting basic personal details
• Choosing the appropriate category (online impersonation / fake profile)
• Describing the incident in clear, factual language
• Uploading evidence

After submission, an acknowledgment number is generated. This number is important for follow-up and tracking.

Once submitted, the complaint is forwarded to the relevant cyber cell. Officers review the evidence and assess whether the facts disclose an offence under applicable law

Depending on the case:

• The platform may be contacted for account details
• The fake profile may be taken down
• A formal police case may be registered

The purpose of the process is not punishment alone, but stopping the harm and preventing repetition.

Common Mistakes That Reduce Effectiveness

Many victims unknowingly weaken their case. Common mistakes include:

• Deleting evidence out of fear
• Publicly arguing with the impersonator
• Paying unknown “helpers” who promise quick solutions
• Ignoring the issue hoping it will disappear

Awareness prevents these mistakes.

Precautions to Reduce the Risk of Impersonation

While impersonation cannot be eliminated entirely, risk can be reduced by:

• Keeping social media profiles private
• Avoiding public sharing of personal photos
• Using strong, unique passwords
• Enabling two-factor authentication
• Periodically searching your name online

Early detection reduces damage.

Many people ask whether creating a fake profile is always illegal. The answer depends on intention and impact. It becomes an offence when there is deception, misuse, or harm.

Common Doubts People Have

Another common doubt is whether only women can complain. The law applies equally to everyone. Anyone whose identity is misused can seek protection.

People also worry about confidentiality. Cyber complaints are handled sensitively, and victim identity is protected.

Educational Note

This article is written for general awareness and educational purposes only. It simplifies legal concepts without offering legal advice. Blogs

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