London Stalking Support Service

Online Stalking/ Cyberstalking

This is not an alternative to the emergency services. Call 999 if you feel at risk or are in danger.

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Online Stalking/ Cyberstalking

Over 70% of people who have contacted the National Stalking Helpline have reported tech-facilitated stalking.

You are not alone.

Stalking behaviours often overlap, and you may be experiencing more than one type of stalking at the same time.

Contact the helpline 0808 802 0300

What is cyberstalking?

Cyberstalking often involves using social media to track someone or keep tabs on them, as well as sending unwanted communication via texts and calls.

We regard cyberstalking as an extension of offline stalking. Cyberstalking should be treated as seriously as any other form of stalking, as the impact can be the same: causing fear, alarm and distress.

How Cyberstalking can happen:

Examples of cyberstalking can include but are not limited to

Monitoring and surveillance

Checking social media to keep tabs on the victim, access their location or gather more information about the victim to stalk them. This can also include using smart devices, trackers or connected devices to monitor someone.

Unwanted contact

Making multiple accounts on social media to send unwanted messages. Often a victim will block the account only for the stalker to set up another account. This may also include repeated calls, texts, comments, likes or shares.

Vexatious complaints

False allegations or complaints that are often submitted to professional or statutory organisations with the intention of smearing the victim, causing stress or damaging their reputation and credibility.

Sharing private information

Sharing or threatening to share private messages, photos or videos without the victim’s consent. This can be done to humiliate the victim, retaliate against them or pressure them into maintaining contact.

Signs a pattern may be concerning include:

The stalker has been told to stop either by the victim or the police and refuses to stop
Behaviour escalates and evolves over time
The victim starts to feel increasingly unsafe

Trust your gut. If you are concerned, get in touch. If you feel in danger, call 999 immediately, the police emergency service.