Work through each tab at your own pace. Check items as you complete them.
What to capture
Screenshot every message with the timestamp visible
Make sure the date, time, and sender's name are visible in each screenshot
Record the sender's username and account URL
Screenshot their profile page - including any profile photos
Note dates and times of any physical incidents
Including where it happened and anyone who may have witnessed it
Do not delete anything - even messages that feel trivial
A pattern is built from small things. Courts respond to patterns, not single incidents
Create your evidence record
Write a chronological timeline of events
Date, what happened, platform or location, any witnesses
Store everything in a cloud-backed folder only you can access
Do not use a device or account the person has ever had access to
Consider using a separate email account for evidence storage
Forward evidence emails there so they are separate from your main inbox
Tip: You can restrict what you see without deleting. On most platforms you can mute or archive conversations so you do not have to view them, while keeping the evidence intact.
After you report
Save your report reference number
Platforms issue this after submission - screenshot it or copy it to your evidence folder
Block the account after reporting (not before)
Blocking first can limit your access to evidence
If the report is dismissed, re-report and note "imminent safety risk"
This routes to more senior review in most platform Trust and Safety teams
Tip: Platform reports and police reports can run simultaneously. You do not need to wait for one to resolve before starting the other.
What constitutes a reportable offence
Repeated unwanted contact (even without explicit threats)
A pattern of contact after being asked to stop is legally actionable as harassment
Any explicit threats of harm - physical or reputational
Threats to hurt you, damage your reputation, or contact your family or employer
Appearing at your home, workplace, or regular locations
Physical following or monitoring is a core component of stalking legislation
What to bring when you report
Printed screenshots with timestamps and sender details
Your written chronological timeline
Contact details of any witnesses
Ask for a report reference number before you leave
Even if no immediate action is taken, a filed report creates a documented pattern
Ask about a non-molestation order / restraining order / protection order
Emergency applications can be granted within 24-72 hours when risk is established
India
Local police station Cybercrime: cybercrime.gov.in Helpline: 1930