logo
logo
Sign in

Bank Account Freeze by Cyber Crime Remedies and Recourse for Aggrieved Parties

avatar
Aran LAw
Bank Account Freeze by Cyber Crime Remedies and Recourse for Aggrieved Parties

Bank Account Freeze by Cyber Crime Remedies

In India, a bank account freeze under the instruction of the cyber cell if there’s suspicion of fraudulent activities, money laundering, or other cybercrimes related to the account. The cyber cell is a branch of law enforcement that deals with cybercrime and internet-related issues.

The owner of a frozen bank account can’t use the money or make transactions until the issue is resolved. Help the investigation if your bank account is frozen due to these issues.

Contact your bank to find out why your account is frozen and follow their instructions.

  • Contact your bank: Reach out to your bank to understand the exact reason for the account freeze and get any available information about the case. Your bank might guide you on the next steps to take.
  • Cooperate with the investigation: Respond to any requests from the cyber cell or other investigating authorities for information or documentation related to your account. Cooperating with the investigation may help expedite the resolution of your case.
  • Consult a legal expert: Engage a lawyer who specializes in cyber law or financial matters to help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process to get advised on the best course of action and represent you in any legal proceedings if necessary.
  • Gather evidence: Collect any relevant documentation, such as transaction records or communication history, that can help prove your innocence or show that your account was misused without your knowledge.

By following the above methods, you can try resolve the method in the investigation stage. The Cyber Police may withhold your account or include you in the charge sheet. For help, consult a cyber law expert.


File a petition or representation:

Depending on your situation and legal advice, you may need to file a petition or representation with the appropriate court or authority to challenge the account freeze and seek relief.


1. Before the Investigating Authority

Section 102(3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) has been amended to allow the investigating authority to make a decision about whether to return seized property, including frozen bank accounts, during an investigation. This decision is based on the authority’s determination of whether the continued retention of the property is necessary for the investigation and may be conditional on the person executing a bond undertaking to produce the property in court when required. The aggrieved party must cooperate with the investigating authority and provide supporting evidence to obtain this remedy.


2. Before the Magistrate

If the Investigating Authority does not provide relief, parties can approach the relevant Magistrate under either Section 451 or Section 457 of the CrPC. Both sections provide for the release of seized property in certain circumstances:

a. Section 451: This section empowers the Magistrate to order the release of frozen bank accounts on the condition that the party executes a bond for the amount in question before the Magistrate and agrees to produce the funds as directed by the Magistrate. The party must file an application before the Magistrate, providing all necessary information and documentation to support their claim.

b. Section 457: Under this section, the Magistrate can deliver the seized property, including frozen bank accounts, to the rightful owner. An application made under Section 457 of the CrPC is maintainable for the release of a frozen bank account. Like Section 451, the aggrieved party must file an application and provide supporting information and documentation.


3. Before the High Court

If the Magistrate does not grant relief, another option available to aggrieved parties is to invoke the writ jurisdiction of the High Courts. The party can allege that the seizure of their bank account violates their right to livelihood under Article 21 of the Constitution or is arbitrary and a violation of Article 14. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind when pursuing this remedy:

a. Exhaustion of alternative remedies: High Courts may decline to interfere if the petitioner has not exhausted available statutory remedies under Sections 451 and 457 of the CrPC.

b. High Court’s discretion: In some cases, High Courts may direct petitioners to approach the Magistrate under Section 451 or 457 of the CrPC rather than hear the matter on merits under writ jurisdiction.

c. Exceptional circumstances: In the case of Madhu vs. Sub Inspector of Police, the Court held that a petitioner may approach the High Court itself if the freezing of assets is illegal and can be challenged without reference to factual disputes.


Conclusion

Navigating the complex landscape of frozen bank accounts in India requires a thorough understanding of the legal remedies available and the appropriate course of action for each case. The aggrieved party should be prepared to deal with the investigating authority, to apply to the magistrate under Section 451 or 457 of the Penal Code, and, if necessary, to invoke the written jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. In cases of frozen bank accounts, it’s crucial to have a reliable and experienced legal team on your side to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system. Aran Law Firm, with its team of knowledgeable and dedicated lawyers, can provide the necessary guidance and representation in such situations. The cyber law, financial, and litigation firm can handle frozen bank account cases.


Legal Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog post is for general information and educational purposes only. Nothing contained in this blog post should be construed as legal advice from The Aran Law Firm or the individual author, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter.

collect
0
avatar
Aran LAw
guide
Zupyak is the world’s largest content marketing community, with over 400 000 members and 3 million articles. Explore and get your content discovered.
Read more