The Cyberbullying Research Center defines cyberstalking as: “The use of technology to make someone afraid or concerned about their safety.” This can be done through email, cellphones or on social media. These behaviors are meant to intimidate, harass, shame, and control a victim.
Cyber abuse can come in many forms. Some examples include:
- stalking/harassment — repeated unwanted communication or threats
- sextortion — using sensitive photos or information as leverage
- denigration — posting content designed to damage someone’s reputation or livelihood
- device access — location tracking, monitoring conversations, or installing spyware
- doxing — exposing someone’s private information
Authorities that deal with this type of abuse say it can disorient and terrorize the victim. It can have long-lasting emotional and psychological effects, and create stress, anxiety and paranoia, as well as other contributing factors.
Cyberstalking is considered a felony, and repeated unwanted communication is harassment. Oklahoma Statute §21-1172 makes it illegal to use any telecommunication or electronic communication device to threaten, harass, or otherwise intimidate another person. Under this law, making lewd, obscene and indecent proposals or comments through these means is also unlawful and may be criminally prosecuted.
The Stalking Prevention Awareness and Resource Center discovered that stalking increases the risk of domestic homicide by three times.
Agents who regularly deal with this type of crime say only 29% of cyberstalking incidents are reported. Without a paper trail, it can leave law enforcement helpless to take protective action. It’s for this reason that they recommend that victims/survivors document everything.
There are other steps a victim can take to regain control:
- don’t respond. Stalkers thrive off engagement from their target
- change your passwords, protect your profiles, or start new online accounts
- document the behavior with the date, time, and details of each incident
- report the abuse to websites, police, and the FBI
- request a Temporary Order of Protection, also known as a TPO.
These actions take power and control away from the abuser and help prosecutors hold them accountable. Victims can document evidence on websites designed to capture online predators. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center is a database where agents can gather and compare information for prosecution. Victims Voice is another hub of online support.
Authorities say the most important thing that a target of online abuse can do is follow their instincts. Abuse is never the fault of the victim, and help is available.
HAVEN Advocates are here to help!
