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What is Cyberstalking
Cyberstalking is when someone uses the internet to systematically and repeatedly harass, threaten or intimidate someone. There are many ways this can be done. Some popular forms are through email, social media or chat rooms.
With cyberstalking, an abuser will electronically monitor the activities and whereabouts of someone, making false accusations, and/or threatening them with physical harm.
Cyberstalkers take advantage of the anonymity of the internet and use it to target and harass people online. Contact and communication directed at the victim are often inappropriate, threatening, or disturbing. The point of cyberstalking is to make someone feel fearful, distressed, or ashamed.
Examples of Cyberstalking
Here are some examples of what would be considered cyberstalking:
Tracking a victim online, then joining the same groups and forums
Sending threatening private messages
Creating fake social media accounts to follow the target, also known as “catfishing”
Extorting explicit photos from the victim and/or distributing these online
Sending unwanted gifts
Doxing and distributing private information without consent
Posting (real or fake) photos of the victim
Making false accusations against the victim
Installing tracking software on the victim’s devices
Hijacking a victim’s webcam
Depending on their motivation, cyberstalkers use a wide range of online methods to target and torment victims. It’s important to be familiar with these methods. They might help you realize that you’re being cyberstalked.
Have a look at the this infographic to become more familiar with these methods.
The Effects of Cyberstalking
Relentless cyberstalking can have serious emotional and physical consequences for victims. Personal and professional reputations may be tarnished as a result of rumors spread by the stalker. In certain cases, there’s also financial damage, for example when bank accounts are hacked.
Other effects include:
Insomnia and interrupted sleeping patterns
Heightened anxiety, depression, anger, and aggression
Feelings of helplessness and distrust
Problems with concentration
Physical discomfort like headaches or stomach issues
Fear of entering new relationships
Trust issues with current partners
Laws for Cyberstalking
Unfortunately, there is currently no standalone law against stalking or cyberstalking in Ireland, although efforts are on-going to change this. However, under legislation currently being drawn up, cyberstalking and revenge porn will come with jail sentences and criminal records.
The US have enforceable laws regarding cyberstalking. Poland is currently the only European country that has clear cyberstalking legislation in place.
In the United Kingdom, the Protection from Harassment Act and Malicious Communications Act cover certain instances of cyberstalking, though it’s aimed more broadly at cyberbullying and online harassment.
How to Prevent Cyberstalking
Look at these infographics which deal with ways to prevent cyberstalking and what to do if you are a victim of cyberstalking.
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