4 steps to help you prevent cyberstalking

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There have been many benefits to society as a result of technological advances and innovation. Unfortunately, new technologies also offer a new opportunity for people with criminal intentions to harass and stalk their victims. Online stalking or cyberstalking is a relatively new form of crime however it has quickly become a serious concern. Cyberstalking refers to the harassment and threatening of an individual perpetrated online by an anonymous person or persons. The anonymity that the Internet offers as well as the lack of public understanding both make this crime particularly insidious. 

Luckily, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from becoming a cyberstalking victim.

1. Don’t Post Your Personal Data on Social Media

Social media accounts are often the first thing stalkers check in order to get information on their victims. Sharing your life with friends and family is made easier through the use of social platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and many others; however, they also make it easier for potential stalkers and other criminals to gain access to your personal data.

As a protective measure you should never list your phone number, personal email address or home address on these sites especially if you have public profiles. This information could be used by criminals to target and harass you and even to gain access to your other personal data such as banking or credit card information.

2. Search Your Name

Even if you’re being careful about the information you post online it doesn’t mean that all of your friends and family are taking the same precautions. By regularly conducting an internet search for your name you can make sure that your identity is protected and your personal information isn’t readily available. Additionally, this type of search can reveal any false or damaging information being spread about you by your stalker through a website, blog or even a Craigslist account. If you do find false information you can contact a server administrator to have the content removed.

3. Create Strong Passwords

A password is your first line of defense against stalkers and hackers. A strong and unique password can protect you against this type of attack. Many people don’t pay too much attention to the passwords they use and often use the same password for everything for ease of access. However this ease of access is also granted to anyone who has malicious intent. Your passwords should never contain personal information such as birthdays, anniversary dates, children’s names or your hometown. Furthermore, any security questions should also be hard to guess. Remember, the answer to the security question doesn’t have to be accurate it just needs to be something only you would know. Never write down your passwords on paper and never share them with strangers. It’s also a good idea to do a yearly checkup and change the passwords to all of your online accounts.

4. Be Careful When Answering Surveys and Emails

Surveys are an extremely popular form of online marketing. You can receive a survey through email, text or a phone call. Most surveys are legitimate and they will be provided to you by a company representative. However, survey forms may also require that you verify your identity or provide personal information. If a survey you’ve received makes you feel suspicious always opt out. If you’re interested to learn more about the product or service being offered provide secondary information instead of your personal data such as a work phone number instead of your personal one or use a secondary email address.