Cyberstalking

Cyberstalking is the use of the <a href="/facts/Internet/Xw1rVvJU">Internet</a> or other electronic means to <a href="/facts/Stalking/2BPyXe69">stalk</a> or <a href="/facts/Harass/MoE10cW3">harass</a> an individual, group, or organization. It may include <a href="/facts/False_accusations/HjuAdHQj">false accusations</a>, <a href="/facts/Defamation/uEe9LxeQ">defamation</a>, <a href="/facts/Slander/uEe9LxeQ">slander</a> and <a href="/facts/Libel/uEe9LxeQ">libel</a>. It may also include <a href="/facts/Surveillance/hJhvWdSJ">monitoring</a>, <a href="/facts/Identity_theft/WeTNe9DG">identity theft</a>, threats, <a href="/facts/Vandalism/huCfsqth">vandalism</a>, solicitation for sex, <a href="/facts/Doxing/4BAAFeAk">doxing</a>, or <a href="/facts/Blackmail/KJjm5fgJ">blackmail</a>. These unwanted behaviors are perpetrated online and cause intrusion into an individual's digital life as well as negatively impact a victim's <a href="/facts/Mental_health/QIszfk6D">mental</a> and emotional well-being, as well as their sense of safety and security online. 
Cyberstalking is often accompanied by realtime or offline <a href="/facts/Stalking/2BPyXe69">stalking</a>. In many jurisdictions, such as <a href="/facts/California/zLW2vdQJ">California</a>, 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, <a href="/facts/Slander/uEe9LxeQ">slander</a> and <a href="/facts/Harassment/MoE10cW3">harassment</a> laws. A conviction can result in a restraining order, probation, or criminal penalties against the assailant, including jail.

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Cyberstalking