Cyber Stalking: Definition and Prevention Tips
Cyber stalking refers to the malicious use of the Internet and other technologies to harass or stalk an individual in an online environment, often classified as a criminal offense. It can manifest through various online interactions, including unsolicited emails, intrusive text messages, and hostile engagements on social media networks. Typically, cyber stalking is characterised by a systematic, deliberate, and persistent approach.
Often, the interaction continues unabated, even when the recipient clearly expresses their displeasure or explicitly requests the perpetrator to cease their behaviour. The content directed at the target is frequently inappropriate and may be disturbing, leading to significant emotional repercussions, including feelings of fear, distress, anxiety, and apprehension.
Let’s understand cyber stalking in detail.
Types of Cyber Stalking
Webcam Hijacking
In this insidious form of stalking, perpetrators use malware to gain unauthorised access to a victim’s webcam. Victims may be tricked into downloading an infected file without knowing that their camera is being monitored. This invasion of privacy can be especially alarming, as victims may remain unaware of the surveillance.
Monitoring Location Check-Ins
Frequent location check-ins on social media platforms can provide cyber stalkers with a clear map of their movements. By simply viewing your posts on platforms like Facebook, a stalker can easily track your whereabouts and habits, making it easier to follow you in real life.
Catfishing
Catfishing involves creating fake online profiles to deceive victims into believing they are interacting with someone they know or a potential friend. This tactic is often employed on social media platforms, where stalkers may masquerade as acquaintances to gain trust and manipulate their targets.
Installing Stalkerware
Stalkerware refers to covert software that monitors a victim’s activities, including location tracking, access to text messages, browsing history, and even audio recordings. This software operates silently in the background, allowing stalkers to gather sensitive information without the victim’s knowledge.
Using Geotags to Track Location
Many digital photographs include geotags embedded in their metadata, which indicate the time and location where the images were taken. Stalkers can utilise specialised apps to extract this information, enabling them to monitor a victim’s movements based on the pictures they post online.
Tips to Prevent Cyber Stalking
Preventing cyber stalking requires a proactive approach to safeguard your online information and avoid being stalked. Here are some critical steps to effectively mitigate the risks of cyber stalking.
Keep Professional & Personal Accounts Different
For individuals trying to establish a professional online presence, keeping professional accounts strictly focused on work-related content and avoiding personal details is advisable. This step ensures that personal information remains safe from being leaked online. You should also keep your account private and exercise caution when accepting requests from strangers. Only connect with those you know or have met in real life.
Protect Personal Information
Avoid sharing personal information like address, phone number, or email ID on social media accounts, just as one would avoid sharing personal details with an unknown individual in a public setting. If it’s important to share your email ID, use a professional email address. Avoid showcasing your personal spaces, such as conducting a home tour, as this can provide cyber stalkers with potential information to exploit.
Avoid Sharing Your Live Location
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter let users share live locations or tag physical places. Cyber stalkers can exploit this information to track individuals, which may lead to dangerous situations. Use caution to avoid revealing real-time locations, as stalkers can use this to monitor victims closely.
Disable GPS Location
Turn off your GPS location on mobile devices and electronics when not needed. Many apps request GPS access to personalize your experience, but this feature can be exploited, leading to serious risks. Always log out of social media accounts when not in use and secure devices with strong passwords.
Use Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Using a VPN enhances your online security and privacy. Although people sometimes misunderstand VPNs, they protect sensitive data from potential breaches. A VPN obscures your IP address and provides a more secure browsing experience, though it’s important to remember that it’s not foolproof.
Ignore Unknown Messages
Refrain from responding to messages from unknown individuals. Engaging with such contacts can embolden a stalker, as they often intend to gain your attention. If you receive unwanted messages, firmly request that they cease contact, outlining the potential legal consequences of continued harassment. If they persist, utilise the platform’s reporting and blocking features to protect yourself.
Regularly Update Software
Update your software regularly to address security vulnerabilities and protect the integrity of your data. Developers frequently release updates to patch security vulnerabilities and enhance user safety. By ensuring that your operating systems, applications, and antivirus programs are current, you reduce the risk of exploitation by cyber criminals.
Conclusion
Cyber stalking poses a severe threat with serious consequences, affecting individuals emotions and invading their privacy. This form of harassment represents persistent intimidation, threats, and unwarranted surveillance in the digital realm, which can escalate to tangible real-world dangers. To effectively combat cyber stalking, individuals must cultivate awareness of the issue, remain vigilant in their online activities, and pursue legal recourse when necessary to safeguard their rights and well-being.
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