How To File A Complaint In NBI Philippines?

If you have been scammed online, threatened, extorted, or victimized by any crime that needs national-level investigation, you can ask the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to act. This guide walks you through your options: filing online, visiting an NBI office, the documents you will need, what happens after you file, and realistic timelines. Everything here reflects publicly available guidance as of August 13, 2025.

How To Report A Scammer At NBI?

You can choose any of these paths:

1. File online
You can file a complaint online through the NBI’s dedicated reporting link. This option is especially useful for those who cannot visit an office in person.

2. Visit an NBI office

You can file a complaint by visiting the NBI office nearest to you, such as a Regional or District Office, or by going directly to the NBI Cybercrime Division for cases involving online or digital issues.

• • In-Person Filing: Bring your complaint-affidavit along with all documentary evidence to the NBI office. Specify if you are requesting an investigation or reporting a crime.
  • Cybercrime Cases: For online-related issues, visit the NBI Cybercrime Division or send your documents via email to [email protected]

3. Go straight to a specialized unit
• Examples: Cybercrime Division, Anti-Fraud, Anti-Trafficking. Specialized divisions handle intake and clarificatory interviews on site.

Tip: Filing a complaint with the NBI is generally free. Expect minor costs only for notarization and photocopying if needed.

What to prepare before you file?

Have digital and printed copies where possible:

• Complaint-Affidavit with a clear, chronological narration of facts, the laws you believe were violated, and a short “prayer” asking the NBI to investigate and file charges. You can sign this before an NBI agent during your visit or before a notary.

• Evidence such as screenshots, bank receipts, chat logs, emails (.eml or .msg), photos, and videos. For online cases, do not edit or crop originals. Maintain file metadata.

• Valid ID of the complainant and witnesses. Bring originals and copies.

• Special Power of Attorney if you are filing on someone’s behalf.

Filing online for cybercrime and online scams

1. Create a case and complete the e-complaint form
   Provide your details, a narration of the incident, and your estimated loss.

2. Upload your evidence
   The portal accepts common file types like JPG, PNG, PDF, DOCX, EML, MSG, and ZIP. If a file is too large, compress it or split it logically.

3. Receive your ticket number by email
   This confirms that your complaint was logged.

4. Watch for the scheduler email
   Within about three business days, you will receive a Zoom or onsite appointment slot for a clarificatory interview. Bring two IDs and your originals if you attend in person.

5. Attend the clarificatory interview
   You will be asked follow-up questions. If needed, you will execute or ratify your sworn affidavit during the session.

If you cannot access the online portal, send your complaint and attachments to the NBI via email or go directly to CAD in Pasay.

Filing in person at an NBI office

1. Go to the appropriate office
   • NCR: CAD at NBI HQ, Filinvest Cyberzone Bay, Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Pasay City
   • Outside NCR: nearest NBI Regional or District Office.

2. Proceed to the Complaints/Receiving Section
   Inform the officer you are filing a complaint. You will be given forms if you do not have a prepared affidavit.

3. Submit your affidavit, IDs, and evidence
   The front desk will review completeness and log your case. You will receive a case or control number.

4. Clarificatory interview
   An agent may interview you the same day or schedule you for a later date, especially if specialized units must be involved.

5. Follow-up
   Keep your case number. You can request status updates at the public assistance desk or by replying to the official email that acknowledged your filing.

What happens after you file

While each case differs, the NBI typically follows this sequence:

• Preliminary evaluation within a few working days to confirm jurisdiction and assign your case to the right division.

• Investigation which may include subpoenas, interviews, coordination with banks and telecoms, and digital forensics for cyber cases.

• Legal review and disposition that can lead to referral to the City or Provincial Prosecutor for preliminary investigation, referral to another agency, or closure with notice if there is no probable cause.

When the NBI endorses your case to the City or Provincial Prosecutor, you will be notified to appear or subscribe a complaint in the prosecutor’s office. That stage is governed by DOJ rules on preliminary investigation.

Important Reminders:

• Prepare Accurate Documentation: Clear, well-organized evidence strengthens your complaint.
• Be Patient: Case handling times vary, so be prepared for potential delays.
• Consider Cybercrime Cases for Online Submissions: Many cyber-related complaints can be submitted via email or online. Read the process of NBI Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

You are not alone, and you have options. Start by writing a clear narrative of what happened, gather your proof, and choose the filing route that fits your situation. If an online link does not load, email or visit the NBI Complaints and Assessment Division and they will guide you. The sooner you file, the better your chances of preserving electronic logs and recovering your losses.