Staying safe online: Cyberstalking among youth

The rise of social media and online interactions has unfortunately made cyberstalking a growing concern, especially among young adults and teenagers. This demographic is particularly vulnerable due to their extensive use of technology and social networks. Understanding the unique aspects of cyberstalking in this age group is essential for prevention and intervention.

Traditional Stalking vs. Cyberstalking

Traditional stalking typically includes behaviours such as following the victim, showing up at their place of work or home, making unwelcome phone calls, and leaving messages or objects for them. It's characterized by a physical presence and direct interactions that instil fear and anxiety in the victim.

Cyberstalking, on the other hand, occurs in the virtual realm. It involves using the internet, social media, email, and other digital communication tools to harass and intimidate. Unlike traditional stalking, cyberstalkers can target their victims from anywhere in the world, making it harder for victims to feel safe.

The Digital Landscape of Young Adults and Teenagers

Young adults and teenagers are often deeply embedded in the digital world, using various platforms to socialize, share experiences, and express themselves with just one click. This constant connectivity, while beneficial in many ways, also exposes them to risks, including cyberstalking. Unlike traditional stalking, which involves physical presence, cyberstalking can occur entirely online, making it harder to detect and prevent.

Forms of Cyberstalking Among Youth

1. Social Media Harassment: Cyberstalkers may use platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, and TikTok to follow, comment, and send direct messages to their victims. This harassment can be relentless and invasive.
2. Digital Surveillance: Stalkers might use spyware or hack into the victim's devices to monitor their activities, including private conversations, browsing history, and locations.
3. Impersonation: Creating fake profiles to impersonate the victim or to deceive others in the victim's social circle is a common tactic. This can lead to reputational damage and social isolation.
4. Text and Email Threats: Persistent, threatening, or inappropriate messages sent via text or email can create a sense of fear and anxiety.
5. Image-Based Abuse: Cyberstalkers may share or threaten to share private photos or videos without consent, a form of abuse often referred to as "revenge porn."

How Cyberstalking Happens in the Context of Romance

When teenagers seek love online, they may unknowingly expose themselves to individuals with malicious intent. Here are common ways cyberstalking can manifest in these scenarios:

• Love Bombing: Cyberstalkers may shower victims with excessive attention, compliments, and affection to quickly build trust and emotional dependence. Once trust is established, they may begin to manipulate or control the victim.
• Catfishing: Cyberstalkers create fake profiles to deceive victims into thinking they are someone else. They may use this fake identity to extract personal information, photos, or even money.
• Digital Intimacy: Sharing intimate messages, photos, or videos with someone online can be risky. If the relationship turns sour, the cyberstalker may threaten to expose these private materials.
• Obsessive Behavior: After a breakup or rejection, some individuals may resort to cyberstalking, constantly messaging, monitoring social media activity, or spreading rumours to intimidate or manipulate the victim.

Recognizing Cyberstalking

Cyberstalking can be insidious and difficult to recognize, especially for those who are not familiar with its manifestations. Here are some signs that someone might be a victim of cyberstalking:

1. Unsolicited Messages: Receiving frequent, unwanted messages, emails, or social media notifications from the same person.
2. Unexpected Friend Requests: Getting friend or follow requests from unfamiliar accounts, often linked to the same individual.
3. Sudden Changes in Behavior: Friends or family might suddenly start behaving differently, possibly due to misinformation spread by the stalker.
4. Compromised Accounts: Frequent hacking attempts or unauthorized access to personal accounts.
5. Constant Monitoring: Feeling as though someone is constantly watching or commenting on online activities, even minor ones.
6. Physical Encounters: In extreme cases, the cyberstalker may use gathered information to physically confront the victim.

Steps to Protect Against Cyberstalking

If you suspect you or your child is being cyber stalked, it's important to take immediate action:

• Seek Support: Reach out to trusted friends, family, or professional support services. Do not face the situation alone.
• Privacy Settings: Encourage teenagers to use privacy settings on social media to limit who can see their posts and personal information.
• Document Everything: Keep records of all communications, messages, and incidents. This documentation can be crucial if legal action becomes necessary.
• Strengthen Security: Change passwords regularly, enable two-factor authentication, and update privacy settings on all accounts.
• Open Communication: Foster an environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their online interactions without fear of judgment. Regular check-ins can help identify potential issues early.
• Limit Sharing: Be cautious about the information you share online, especially on social media. Avoid disclosing your location or plans publicly.