Cyberstalked: Here's How To Identify, Prevent Cyberstalking

Cyberstalking, the act of harassing, stalking someone using digital mediums like social media or email is on a rise in the country. Email stalking, internet stalking and computer stalking are the most common forms of cyberstalking. With our new series Cyberstalked, we intend to educate you on online safety with cyber security expert, Shubham Ajit Singh.

Today, when the majority of the country is online, it is easier for cyber stalkers to commit cyber crimes. On the other hand, it is challenging for social media users to identify if they are being cyberstalked. We asked our cyber security expert to share some tips on identifying cyber stalking.

How To Identify Cyberstalking?

Cyber security expert, Shubham Ajit Singh shared that anyone can be a victim of cyber crimes and to prevent it, active internet users should look for the following signs that actually hint at cyberstalking -

• Receiving email and friend requests from unknown people or unwanted sources.
• Being harassed or threatened on social media.
• Cyber stalkers, impersonate victim identity on social media/dating apps.

Cyber security expert, Shubham Ajit Singh said, “Most stalkers target people they know and most stalking victims are females.”

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Ways To Prevent Cyberstalking

While we all continue to be at the risk of cyberstalking and other cyber crimes while being online, we can keep ourselves safe while being active on the net by following some simple safety steps. Our cyber security expert said, “Remember, cyberstalking can have serious consequences and can be a form of harassment or abuse. By being aware and taking precautions, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from this type of behaviour.” (Rights against being stalked)

• Avoid publishing personal information, especially your location while posting on social media
• If someone tries to cyberstalk you, tell the cyber stalker to stop it and block them immediately.
• Make sure you save all the evidence. Keep screenshots and screen recordings, they can help identify the cyber stalker.
• Set privacy settings on social media and also keep your software/ devices up to date.

• Do report the case at the nearest police station or cybercrime.gov.in. The national cyber crime reporting portal is an initiative by the Government of India to facilitate victims or complainants to report cyber crimes. The portal specifically caters to complaints related to cyber crimes against women and children. Once you file a complaint, the complaint is dealt by law enforcement agencies/ police based on the information provided in the complaint. Make sure you provide the correct, accurate details while filing a complaint for a prompt action. (Laws preventing stalking)
• You can also contact local police in case of an emergency. The national police helpline number is 112, national women helpline number is 181 and cyber crime helpline is 1930.
• Let your family and trusted friends know about the stalking incident.