How to File a Complaint Against a Fraudster in Iran? (Complete Legal Guide)

Introduction

Fraud is one of the most common and harmful crimes in Iran. It often involves someone tricking you into handing over your money, documents, or property using deceptive promises, fake documents, or false claims of authority or wealth.

If you’ve been defrauded, the Iranian legal system does protect you — but you need to know exactly how, where, and with what evidence to file a complaint and seek justice.

In this article, we’ll explain:

What is legally considered fraud?

What documents you need to file a complaint

Step-by-step procedure to report fraud

Whether you can recover your lost money or property

Legal Definition of Fraud in Iranian Law

Under Article 1 of the Law on Intensified Punishment for Fraud, Bribery, and Embezzlement:

“Anyone who deceives others through tricks or lies—such as pretending to have fake companies, fake authorities, or forged documents—and thereby obtains their property, is guilty of fraud and will be punished accordingly.”

Legal Elements of Fraud

To prove fraud and successfully file a complaint, the following three conditions must be present:

Deceptive conduct: Use of lies, fake documents, or false identity

Victim’s trust and deception: You believed the lie and acted upon it

Transfer of property: The fraudster gained something of value from you (money, documents, property)

If someone simply fails to repay a debt without deception, it’s not considered fraud — but rather a civil matter.

What Evidence Do You Need to File a Complaint?

Before filing your complaint, it’s highly recommended to gather the following:

Screenshots or printouts of text messages, emails, or online chats

Videos, voice notes, or images proving false promises or fake documents

Written contracts or payment receipts

Witness testimony or other victims of the same fraud

Official notices (e.g., legal demand letters) and responses

Expert opinions confirming document forgery or false identity

Step-by-Step Guide to File a Fraud Complaint

Collect all evidence and supporting documentation