Recognize

Cyberstalking occurs when an individual uses an electronic tool – such as a website, email, phone, or social media account – to harass, control, manipulate, or habitually disparage a child, adult, business, or group without a direct or implied threat of physical harm. The cyber stalker’s primary goal is to exert power and control over the target, using verbal, emotional, sexual, or social abuse.

If you or someone you know is currently in danger from cyberbullying, harassment, or stalking, call 911. DON’T WAIT!

Threats of violence, child pornography, unauthorized sexually explicit messages or photos, or photos/videos taken in private places should always be reported immediately to your local law enforcement authority.

If you are safe, we recommend that you follow our guidelines below and then proceed to our Report, Recover, and Reinforce sections for further assistance.

Some Immediate Action Steps to Take

  • Stop all communication with the harasser, it’s important to not respond.
  • Block the harasser from your phone, email, and/or social media accounts.
  • Seek support from a trusted friend, family member, or a professional counselor.
  • Download the Tech Safety App for information that can help you identify technology-facilitated harassment, stalking, or abuse and includes tips on what to do.
  • Keep a record of the dates, times, people involved and descriptions of when the stalking occurred. You may need to provide this information when you file a report.
  • Save and print screenshots, emails, and text messages as evidence.
  • Report the incidents, with the details, to the website company and/or cell phone service provider.
  • If you are concerned about your own safety or the safety of someone else involved in a dangerous relationship, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline to chat or call 800-799-7233 for help.

Report

Reporting cyberstalking is very important! You will help law enforcement track these types of incidents and help them decrease cybercrime. They can also provide you with useful information about what next steps to take and share your report with other law enforcement partners.

File a police report if you feel you are in immediate danger, call 911. If the issue doesn’t place you in immediate danger, call the non-emergency number of your local law enforcement officials. State that you would like to make a report about cyber harassment. Local Law Enforcement officials will have varied procedures depending on where you live but be prepared to provide them with your personal information and details of the incident. Not sure if you need to contact law enforcement; if you or your child has received or experienced one of the following take action and contact law enforcement immediately:

  • Threats of violence or bodily harm.
  • Sexually explicit messages or photos, or child pornography.
  • Stalking or hate crimes.
  • Pictures of yourself or child in a place where you should expect privacy, such as your home.

Recover

These resources have been gathered, selected and vetted to help you recover after being cyberstalked. You may need to contact organizations outside FightCybercrime.org. Results will vary depending on your circumstances.

Reinforce

Once you have notified the right organizations and you are on the road to recovery, it is time to reinforce your online safety using these resources and tools.

Help Protect Yourself Now and in the Future

  • Keep passwords private.
  • If necessary, change and create a new, strong password for your account. Learn how from ConnectSafely.org.
  • If available, always enable two factor authentication (2FA) – which requires an additional code to log in.
  • Set up privacy settings on your accounts to control who sees your information.
  • Use caution with unsecured Wi-Fi connections.
  • Discontinue online communications with anyone who is rude, harassing or abusive.
  • Don’t share too much personal info on social media.
  • Talk to a trusted family member or friend about any harassing messages you receive or things you see online that make you sad or scared.
  • If you believe you are being harassed – speak up – report it to a person of authority.
  • Seek out the help of a counselor to help you through the emotional abuse.

Community Resources