This is a continuation in a series of blogs that is all about cyber issues. This entry will be all about Cyber Stalking.
What is Cyber Stalking?
Cyberstalking is the use of the Internet or other electronic means to stalk or harass an individual, group, or organization. It may include false accusations, defamation, slander and libel. It may also include monitoring, identity theft, threats, vandalism, solicitation for sex, or gathering information that may be used to threaten, embarrass or harass.
Cyberstalking is often accompanied by realtime or offline stalking. In many jurisdictions, such as California, both are criminal offenses. Both are motivated by a desire to control, intimidate or influence a victim. A stalker may be an online stranger or a person whom the target knows. They may be anonymous and solicit involvement of other people online who do not even know the target.
Cyberstalking is a criminal offense under various state anti-stalking, slander and harassment laws. A conviction can result in a restraining order, probation, or criminal penalties against the assailant, including jail.
This is the several forms of cyberstalking that can take place including:
- placing orders for delivery in someone else’s name
- gathering personal information on the victim
- spreading false rumors
- encouraging others to join in the harassment
- threatening harm through email
- creating fear and paranoia for someone else
- hacking into online accounts
Cyberstalking can cause extreme distress for the victim. It can impact their career, personal relationships, and quality of life. Often times victims do not know who the perpetrator is and start wondering if they are being watched or followed. The common denominator amongst cyberstalking cases is that they are typically against the law, unsolicited by the victim, and unrelenting.
-POSTED BY:JESSIE JR M. VILLAREAL
Cyber Issues 