Cyberstalking is the repeated use of electronic communication to harass or intimidate a victim. It's a serious crime that can have devastating consequences for the target, causing emotional distress, fear, and even physical harm. Cyberstalkers can be anyone, from disgruntled ex-partners to complete strangers, and they can employ a wide range of tactics to invade a victim's privacy and sense of security.

Common Tactics of Cyberstalkers

• Monitoring online activity: Cyberstalkers may monitor the victim's social media accounts, emails, or online forums to gather information about their life, habits, and whereabouts.
• Sending harassing messages: This can include unwanted emails, texts, social media messages, or even voicemails filled with threats, insults, or other disturbing content.
• Doxing: Releasing the victim's private information online, such as their home address, phone number, or workplace, can put them at risk of further harassment or even physical harm.
• Identity theft: Stealing the victim's personal information to impersonate them online, damage their reputation, or make unauthorized purchases in their name.
• Spreading rumors or defamatory content: Cyberstalkers may try to damage the victim's reputation by spreading false information about them online.

Signs You Might Be Being Cyberstalked

• You receive unwanted or threatening messages from unknown or known senders.
• Someone is constantly monitoring your online activity, commenting on your posts, or showing up in online spaces you frequent.
• You notice suspicious activity on your social media accounts, such as unauthorized login attempts.
• You fear for your safety or the safety of your loved ones.

What to Do If You're Being Cyberstalked

• Document everything: Keep copies of harassing messages, emails, or social media posts as evidence.
• Change your passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts and enable two-factor authentication where available.
• Increase your privacy settings: Review and adjust privacy settings on social media accounts and other online platforms to limit who can see your information.
• Report the abuse: Report the cyberstalking to the platform where the harassment is occurring and to law enforcement if necessary.
• Seek support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, therapist, or counselor about what you're going through. There are also many online resources available to help victims of cyberstalking.

Remember, you are not alone. Cyberstalking is a crime, and there are steps you can take to protect yourself from further harassment