Cyberdefamation & Fake News - FACTs you should know.

Last updated: October 3, 2025 Type: Article

Cyber-defamation happens when false or harmful content is posted online to damage someone's reputation. It can spread on WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, or blogs, often going viral and causing real-world harm. Fake news also triggers panic, riots, or financial loss.

Key Laws Applicable

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 – Sections on defamation, insult, and obscenity.
Information Technology Act, 2000 – Sections 66, 67, 79.
IT (Intermediary Guidelines & Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 – Duties of platforms and creators.
Indian Penal Code (IPC) – Applies to older cases before BNS replaced it.

Major Offences

BNS Section 356 – Defamation (including via electronic media).
BNS Section 79 – Insulting the modesty of a woman via electronic media.
IT Act Section 67 – Publishing obscene content.
IT Act Section 79 – Liability of platforms if they fail to act.

Note: Section 66A of the IT Act (about offensive messages) was struck down, but police still sometimes mention it – courts won't uphold it.

Where & How to Report Cyber Defamation / Fake News

National Cybercrime Reporting Portal – cybercrime.gov.in
(For defamation, fake profiles, fake news, revenge porn, and obscene content).
Local Police Station – File FIR directly.
Cyber Crime Cell – Available in every state.
Helpline – Call 1930 (Cyber Crime Helpline).

State-wise Cybercrime Reporting Table

State/UT	Cyber Crime Cell Website / Portal
Delhi	https://cyber.delhipolice.gov.in/Report.html
Maharashtra (Mumbai)	https://mhcyber.gov.in/
Karnataka	https://ksp.karnataka.gov.in/english
Tamil Nadu	Tamil Nadu portal
Uttar Pradesh	https://uppolice.gov.in/article/en/cyber-crime
West Bengal	https://cybercrimewing.wb.gov.in/
Telangana	https://tgcsb.tspolice.gov.in/
Kerala	Kerala Cybercrime Portal
Rajasthan	Rajasthan Cybercrime Portal
Gujarat	https://gujaratcybercrime.org/eng/guide.html
Haryana	https://haryanapolice.gov.in/Login
Punjab	https://cybercrime.punjabpolice.gov.in/
All India (General)	https://cybercrime.gov.in

(For smaller states/UTs, the common portal cybercrime.gov.in applies.)

Relatable FAQs – Cyber Defamation & Fake News

1. Somebody posted falsehoods about me on Facebook; is this cyber-defamation?: Yes, if your reputation is harmed. You can file a complaint with the police or cyber cell.
2. A YouTube channel is spreading lies about my business. What should I do?: Report the video to YouTube and lodge a cyber complaint with evidence (screenshots, links).
3. How do I report fake news on WhatsApp?: Long press message → Tap "Report". Also complain on cybercrime.gov.in with screenshots.
4. Is a meme with my photo and false text defamation?: Yes, it counts as cyber-defamation + identity misuse. File a complaint.
5. What is the punishment for cyber defamation?: Jail up to 2–3 years + fine, depending on harm caused.
6. What if I just shared the fake post unknowingly?: You may be warned. But repeated sharing knowingly = legal action.
7. Can I sue for damages (money)?: Yes. File a civil defamation suit for compensation.
8. Can minors be punished?: Yes, but under juvenile justice law if below 18.
9. Am I liable if I'm a WhatsApp group admin?: Yes, if you ignore/report malicious content.
10. How can I get defamatory posts removed quickly?: File a takedown request with the platform OR seek a court injunction for urgent removal.