What is Cyberstalking
Cyberstalking is commonly defined as the use of the internet or other electronic means to harass an individual, a group of individuals, or an organization. It may include online or technology based behaviours such as: false accusations, monitoring, making threats, identity theft, damage to data or equipment, the solicitation for sex, or gathering information in order to harass.
Examples of cyberstalking:
- Sending constant stream of emails or instant messages to you, or your friends, family, or coworkers;
- Posting inappropriate comments or make false accusations on your social networking sites;
- Posing as you and posting inappropriate comments and personal advertisements online;
- Sending offensive emails in your name to your family, friends, significant other, boss, etc.;
- Hacking (breaking into your accounts and changing passwords or signing up for spam and inappropriate websites);
- Sending viruses to your computer (for example, spyware[1] to track your online visits as well as key stroke and other viruses meant to track or damage your computer);
- Invading your favourite sites and forums and leaving inappropriate comments or construct inappropriate images incorporating your face;
- Creating websites which are inappropriate or questionable in your name and sending invites to your family and peers;
- Attempting to gather your personal information such as your phone number and home address, that can develop into cases of offline stalking. In some cases, your personal information is posted online soliciting sexual services or violence.
- Trying to involve third parties in the harassment by claiming that you have harmed them in some way. Posting your name and telephone number in order to encourage others to join the pursuit.
- Ordering items such as pornography or sex toys or subscribing to magazines in your name and having them delivered to your workplace.
References:
Duhaime, L.(2009). Stalking. Accessed on February 9, 2011 at http://duhaime.org/LegalResources/CriminalLaw/LawArticle-95/Staling.aspx. Last updated: Thursday, June 4, 2009.
WiredSafety. Cyber Stalking and Harassment FAQ. Accessed on January 18, 2011
[1] Spyware is a type of hidden software that is installed on the victim's computer without their knowledge. It is generally very small and will not interfere with the computer's functioning so as to go unnoticed.
