Cyberstalking

"Cyberstalker" redirects here. For the Lifetime TV film, see Cyberstalker (film).

Cyberstalking is the use of the Internet or other electronic means to stalk or harass an individual, group, or organization.[1][2] It may include false accusations, defamation, slander and libel. It may also include monitoring, identity theft, threats, vandalism, solicitation for sex, doxing, or blackmail.[1] These unwanted behaviors are perpetrated online and cause intrusion into an individual's digital life as well as negatively impact a victim's mental and emotional well-being, as well as their sense of safety and security online. [3]

Cyberstalking is often accompanied by realtime or offline stalking.[4] In many jurisdictions, such as California, both are criminal offenses.[5] Both are motivated by a desire to control, intimidate or influence a victim.[6] 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.[7]

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.

Cyberstalking is often defined as unwanted behavior.

  1. ^ a b "Cyberstalking". Oxford University Press. Archived from the original on 2016-06-14. Retrieved 2013-12-10.
  2. ^ Reyns, Bradford W.; Henson, Billy; Fisher, Bonnie S. (2011-09-21). "Being Pursued Online: Applying Cyberlifestyle–Routine Activities Theory to Cyberstalking Victimization". Criminal Justice and Behavior. 38 (11): 1149–1169. doi:10.1177/0093854811421448. ISSN 0093-8548. S2CID 143775040.
  3. ^ Wilson, Chanelle; Sheridan, Lorraine; Garratt-Reed, David (2021). "What is Cyberstalking? A Review of Measurements". Journal of Interpersonal Violence. 37 (11–12): NP9763–NP9783. doi:10.1177/0886260520985489. ISSN 0886-2605.
  4. ^ Spitzberg, Brian H.; Hoobler, Gregory (February 2002). "Cyberstalking and the technologies of interpersonal terrorism" (PDF). New Media & Society. 1. 4: 71–92. doi:10.1177/14614440222226271. S2CID 27102356. Archived from the original (PDF) on 14 January 2012. Retrieved 14 June 2011.
  5. ^ Smith, Kevin (2 September 2016). "Tougher California laws protect victims of digital harassment". San Gabriel Valley Tribune. Retrieved 3 July 2017.
  6. ^ Cyberstalking Crime research
  7. ^ "Cyberstalkers: Tools, Tactics and Threats". United States Cybersecurity Magazine. 2018-10-18. Retrieved 2021-09-04.