Cyberstalking
Cyberstalking is a cybercrime when someone is found or reported to have threatened or harassed others with the use of computers and internet services, i.e.: Electronic mail, Instant messaging system, internet forum, or an open source webpage. The behavior of Stalker includes false accusations, writing the defamatory story, harassment, impersonation, threatening, etc. Usually, the majority of Cyber Stalkers are men and the majority of victims are women, it can also be an unsatisfied former employee’s aim of stalking his employer, and many other reasons.
According to the organization receiving reports on Cyber Stalking issues, namely working with to Halt Abuse organization (WHOA). WHOA declared and brought to notice that approximately 70% of Cyberstalkers were male and approximately 30% were female.
Cyberstalking is not limited to corporations, corporate stalking is when an individual usually a former employee or unsatisfied customer stalks a corporation. Cyberstalking, Cyberwarfare,Β Cyberbullying,Β Cybersquatting, Cyber impersonation,Β andΒ Cyber terrorismΒ are now repeated criminal activities conducted by foreign individuals and political organizations.
There are various forms of cyberstalking, each utilizing different online platforms and tactics.
Here are some common types:
- Email Stalking:
- Repeated, unwanted, and threatening emails sent to the victim.
- Social Media Stalking:
- Monitoring and harassing someone through social media platforms.
- Online Harassment:
- Offensive or threatening comments on various online platforms.
- Text Message Stalking (Textual Harassment):
- Continuous, unwanted, and threatening text messages.
- Doxxing:
- Publishing private information online to expose and harass the victim.
- GPS Stalking:
- Illegally tracking the victim’s physical location using GPS technology.
- Video Voyeurism:
- Secretly recording or sharing intimate videos or images without consent.
- Eavesdropping and Hacking:
- Illegally accessing the victim’s computer, email, or online accounts.
- Swatting:
- Making false reports to law enforcement to trigger an emergency response.
- Cyberbullying:
- Engaging in persistent online bullying behavior.
- Catfishing:
- Creating a fake online persona to deceive and manipulate the victim.
- Stalking Apps and Spyware:
- Illegally installing tracking apps or spyware on the victim’s device.
These major types encompass a range of cyberstalking behaviors, each with its own set of legal and ethical concerns. Individuals must be aware of these threats and take steps to protect themselves online. If you believe you are a victim of cyberstalking, seek help from law enforcement and consider consulting with legal professionals.
Protecting yourself from cyberstalking involves a combination of preventive measures and responsive actions.
Here are some steps you can take to enhance your cybersecurity and reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberstalking:
Prevention:
- Privacy Settings:
- Regularly review and adjust privacy settings on your social media accounts to control who can view your information.
- Online Awareness:
- Be cautious about the information you share online, including personal details, location, and daily routines.
- Email Security:
- Use strong, unique passwords for your email accounts and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible.
- Secure Social Media:
- Avoid accepting friend requests or connections from unknown or suspicious profiles.
- Set up account notifications for any changes to your profile or security settings.
- Safe Browsing Habits:
- Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments, especially from unknown sources.
- Regular Device Updates:
- Keep your computer, smartphone, and other devices updated with the latest security patches.
- Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software:
- Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to protect against malicious software.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Activities:
- Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as online banking, over public Wi-Fi networks.
Response to Cyberstalking:
- Document and Preserve Evidence:
- Take screenshots or save copies of any threatening or harassing messages.
- Keep a record of dates, times, and details of the incidents.
- Report to Platforms:
- Report cyberstalking incidents to the relevant social media platforms, email providers, or online forums.
- Block and unfriend or disconnect from the stalker on these platforms.
- Law Enforcement:
- Report the cyberstalking to local law enforcement, providing them with the documented evidence.
- Familiarize yourself with local cybercrime reporting procedures.
- Restraining Orders:
- If the cyberstalking involves someone you know, consider obtaining a restraining order against them.
- Change Passwords:
- Change passwords for your online accounts, especially if they have been compromised.
- Professional Assistance:
- Seek assistance from cybersecurity professionals or legal experts if needed.
- Educate Yourself:
- Stay informed about cybersecurity best practices and be aware of common online threats.
Remember, if you are a victim of cyberstalking, it’s crucial to take the situation seriously and seek help from both online platforms and law enforcement. Reporting incidents promptly can aid in stopping the harassment and holding the perpetrator accountable.