In our current internet age, our lives are intricately intertwined with what happens online. While the internet offers endless opportunities for connection and information sharing, it also raises concerns about privacy and online safety.
One common worry that has persisted over the years is the fear of being stalked online. With the increasing integration of the internet into our daily lives, this concern has become more prevalent than ever before.
How to Find out if Someone is Stalking you Online
If you’ve ever wondered how to find out if someone is stalking you online, you’ve come to the right place, this guide will show you know to know.
Online stalking, also known as cyberstalking, is a form of harassment where someone uses the internet, social media, or other online platforms to harass, intimidate, or monitor another person.
It can range from intrusive messages and constant monitoring of online activities to more severe forms of harassment, sometimes, it can go physical.
Signs that someone may be stalking you
- Excessive social media interactions: If someone is stalking you online, they usually will excessively like, comment, or share your posts, this shows an unusual level of interest in your activities.
- Unidentified accounts: Keep an eye out for friend requests or followers from accounts with minimal information and a small number of friends. Stalkers usually create fake profiles to monitor their victims discreetly.
- Suspicious messages and emails: Once you start getting strange messages or emails from unknown senders, pay attention. These messages could contain malicious content or attempts to gather more information about you.
- Location tracking: Some stalkers might go to great lengths and use technology to track your location. Be cautious if someone seems to know your whereabouts without you telling them.
- Unwanted attention: If someone is stalking you, they may reference obscure details from your online life, indicating that they have been extensively researching your profiles.
- Changes in online behavior: If you notice sudden changes in your online accounts, such as settings being altered without your knowledge, it could be a sign of unauthorized access.
How to confirm if you’re being stalked
There are limited chances for you to know that you are being stalked online if you don’t carefully monitor your account and your online presence.
- Review your privacy settings: You should regularly check and update your privacy settings on social media platforms. Limit who can see your posts, friends list, and personal information.
- Google yourself: Perform a Google search of your name and other details to see what information is publicly available. Stalkers can use any information they find online against you.
- Analyze friend/follower lists: Frequently go through your friend and follower lists on social media platforms. Remove or block anyone you don’t recognize or trust.
- Check your devices: At least once a month, run antivirus scans on your devices to ensure there are no malware or spyware programs installed. These programs can be used by stalkers to monitor your activities.
- Track IP addresses: Some websites allow you to see the IP addresses of people who have recently accessed your accounts. If you notice unfamiliar IPs, it could be a red flag.
- Be cautious with personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive information about yourself online, such as your home address, phone number, or daily routine. Stalkers can use this information to target you more effectively.
Protecting yourself
- Document everything: Keep records of any suspicious messages, emails, or incidents. This documentation can be valuable if you need to involve law enforcement.
- Report and block: Report any stalking behavior to the respective platform and block the individual. Most social media platforms take online harassment seriously and have mechanisms to deal with such issues.
- Inform authorities: If you feel threatened, do not hesitate to contact your local law enforcement. They can give you tips on how to handle the situation legally and ensure your safety.
- Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a mental health professional about your situation. Having emotional support is essential when dealing with the stress of online stalking.
- Stay vigilant: Even after taking preventive measures, you need to stay vigilant. Regularly update your security settings and be cautious about the information you share online.
Conclusion
Online stalking is a serious concern, don’t play around with it if it’s happening to you, stalkers can take it outside online if you don’t handle them. First, you need to understand the signs of stalking, once you confirm your suspicions, take proactive steps in handling them, and block and report them to the platform, it can significantly enhance your online safety.
