What is Cyberstalking

As if stalking isn’t already bad, to make matters worse, it has only become more complex.

Defining Cyberstalking

• Cyberstalking is a form of online harassment in which the perpetrator uses electronic communications (such as the internet, cell phones or GPS) to stalk a victim.
•  Cyberstalking has become more prevalent, and more dangerous, than ever before.
• According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, “approximately 1 in 4 stalking victims reported some form of cyberstalking, such as email or instant messaging.” 
• Part of the danger of technology, the evolution of the internet and social networking sites is that it makes it easier for stalkers to get information about their victims. Another difficult factor of cyberstalking is anonymity. Stalkers don’t ever need to physically interact with their victims to terrorize them because they can do everything online.

Examples of Cyberstalking

• Using electronic communication such as emails, text messages and social media to harass the victim.
• Publishing the victim’s personal information such as name, address and phone numbers online.
• Making up false personas in order to trick the victim into having contact. › Creating and posting sexually explicit images of the victim or victim’s loved ones. › Hacking into the victim’s computer to monitor their communication.
• Placing an unknown GPS or tracking device on their vehicle to track the victim’s movements. › Setting up websites that threaten the victim or encourage others to contact, harass or harm them.
• Following the victim in chat rooms and on social media to harass them.

How to Prevent Cyberstalking

• Don’t overshare.
• Keep your software updated.
• Mask your IP address with a VPN.
• Maintain social media hygiene.
• Don’t leave data around