What is Section 418 IPC? Cheating with knowledge that wrongful loss may ensue

Published on: Lawiz Team

Learn about Section 418 IPC: Cheating with knowledge that wrongful loss may ensue

Official Legal Text

Whoever cheats with the knowledge that he is likely to cause wrongful loss to one whose interest in the transaction to which the cheating relates he was bound, either by law or by legal contract, to protect, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.

What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words

Section 418 punishes anyone who cheats another person, knowing that wrongful loss may be caused to someone whose interests they are bound to protect.

Purpose

To ensure stricter punishment for cheating when the accused is aware that their actions will cause loss to someone they are supposed to protect.

Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment

Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both.

Key Elements

1. The accused must commit cheating. 2. They must know that their actions will cause wrongful loss. 3. The loss must affect someone whose interests they are bound to protect.

Punishment Details

Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or a fine, or both.

Illustrative Example

If an accountant manipulates financial records to benefit themselves, causing loss to their employer, it is an offence under Section 418.

Legal Defenses

If the accused can prove that they did not intend to cause loss or did not know of the loss, they may be acquitted.

Related Sections

Related to Section 417 (Punishment for cheating) and Section 420 (Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property).

FAQs

What does Section 418 IPC define?

Cheating with knowledge that wrongful loss may ensue to person whose interest offender is bound to protect.

How is 'Cheating with knowledge that wrongful loss may ensue to person whose interest offender is bound to protect' interpreted in law?

It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.

Where is Section 418 IPC applicable?

Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.

Can you give a practical example for Section 418?

Examples include real-life cases involving cheating with knowledge that wrongful loss may ensue to person whose interest offender is bound to protect.

Is Section 418 used along with other IPC sections?

Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.

How do courts interpret Section 418 IPC?

Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.

Why is Section 418 significant?

It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.