This guide is written for practical orientation. The correct legal response depends on the documents, transaction trail, police station, complaint stage, devices involved and the specific allegations.
What a notice may ask for
- Appearance before cyber police or investigating officer
- Bank statements, KYC records, invoices or business documents
- Mobile phones, laptops, storage devices or email/account records
- Transaction details, wallet addresses, exchange records or platform credentials
- Explanation of communications, IP logs, domain records or social media activity
How to respond carefully
- Do not ignore a police notice, phone call, account-freeze intimation or request for device production; document the communication carefully.
- Preserve bank statements, KYC records, employment records, invoices, platform records, device data and communications that explain the transactions or allegations.
- Avoid deleting chats, formatting devices, changing phones or making informal explanations that may later be misunderstood.
- Assess whether the matter requires written representation, cooperation with investigation, anticipatory bail, account defreezing, quashing strategy or trial preparation.
- If a device is requested, seek clarity on seizure memo, hash values, mirror imaging, chain of custody and return of property process.
Procedural issues to check
- Correct case number and police station
- Whether the person is accused, witness, complainant or document holder
- Scope of documents/devices requested
- Acknowledgement of documents produced
- Seizure memo, hash values and forensic imaging where applicable
Frequently asked questions
What is a Section 94 BNSS notice?
It is generally a notice or order seeking production of documents, electronic communication, devices or things considered necessary or desirable for investigation or proceedings.
Should I hand over my mobile phone without documentation?
Device production should be handled carefully. A person should seek proper acknowledgement, seizure memo and clarity on scope, depending on the situation.
Can police ask for passwords or account access?
Requests involving passwords, account access and devices raise sensitive legal and privacy issues. A matter-specific legal assessment is advisable.
What happens if I ignore a cyber police notice?
Ignoring a lawful notice may create procedural and legal complications. The safer approach is to verify the notice and respond appropriately.