A question we frequently field from harassment victims is whether someone can be arrested for sending repeated threatening messages online, and the law is unambiguous that this conduct is a punishable, arrestable offence. Someone can be arrested for sending repeated threatening messages online under Section 351 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita dealing with criminal intimidation, along with Section 66A-equivalent protections addressed through IT Act provisions and Section 78 of the BNS relating to stalking when the threats are accompanied by persistent, unwanted contact. Where the threats are directed at a woman, additional protections under stalking and harassment provisions apply, often making the offence cognizable and allowing police to act swiftly without needing a magistrate's prior order.

Repeated threatening messages, whether sent via WhatsApp, email, social media direct messages, or SMS, build a pattern that courts and investigators treat seriously, since persistence itself is evidence of intent to intimidate or cause fear. Someone can be arrested for sending repeated threatening messages online particularly quickly when the threats involve danger to life, safety, or reputation, or when the sender has continued despite being asked to stop, since this demonstrates a clear and escalating disregard for the victim's wellbeing. It is important not to delete or ignore these messages — instead, preserve every message with timestamps and sender details intact, since a well-documented pattern strengthens both the criminal complaint and any protective order sought.

You should approach the cybercrime cell or local police station promptly, and where the situation feels urgent or unsafe, request immediate protective measures alongside the criminal complaint. For assistance drafting a complaint that captures the full pattern of threats effectively, our legal experts at Aapka Legal Advice can help compile your evidence and file with the right legal framing to prompt swift police action.

Because harassment cases require both sensitivity and legal precision, our panel of retired judges and our associated Top Criminal Lawyers in India work together to ensure victims are guided through the process with both urgency and care.

In summary, someone can be arrested for sending repeated threatening messages online, and prompt, well-documented complaints give law enforcement everything they need to act decisively and protect you from further harm.