Online stalkers are a serious problem that many people face. It can be very frightening and intimidating to have someone you don’t know following you around the internet, watching your every move.
If you are dealing with an online stalker, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself and get them to stop. In this article, we will discuss some tips for dealing with online stalkers.
What Exactly are Online Stalkers?
First, it is important to understand what stalking is. Stalking is defined as a pattern of behavior in which someone harasses or threatens another person.
Stalking is a serious problem because it can make the victim feel unsafe and threatened. It can also lead to physical violence. If you are being stalked, you must take action and get help. Here are some ways to deal with a stalker if you suspect you’re being harassed.
1. Call 911 Immediately if You Feel Threatened
If You Are Being Stalked Online and Feel Threatened in Any Way, Call 911 Immediately. This Is the Best Way to Ensure Your Safety and Get the Police Involved. The Sooner You Take Action, the Better.
2. Change Your Privacy Settings
One of the first things you should do if you are being stalked online is to change your privacy settings. Make sure that only people you know and trust have access to your personal information. If possible, make your profile private so that only friends can see it.
3. Block the Person Who Is Stalking You
If someone is stalking you online, one of the best things you can do is block them. This will stop them from being able to see your posts or contact you in any way.
4. Get a Restraining Order
If the person stalking you is doing so in person, you may want to get a restraining order. This will legally require them to stay away from you, and it can provide some protection if they violate the order.
5. Talk to a Counselor or Support Group
Talk to someone about what you are going through. A counselor or support group can offer you much-needed support and advice.
6. Create a Safety Plan
This should include things like changing your route to and from work, varying your routine, and carrying a cell phone with you at all times.
You should also consider installing a security system in your home and getting a dog for protection.
7. Prepare Your Children
If you have children, talk to them about stalking and how to stay safe. Teach them not to give out personal information online or to strangers.
Let them know that they can always come to you if they feel scared or threatened.
8. Keep a Record of Everything
Keep a record of everything that is happening. This can be helpful if you decide to go to the police or get a restraining order.
Keep copies of any threatening messages, emails, or gifts you have received. It would help if you also took screenshots of any posts or comments the stalker has made about you.
9. Remember That Online Stalker Can Get Worse
It is important to remember that online stalkers can get worse over time. If you are being harassed, take action immediately and get help from the police or a support group. Refrain from trying to handle the situation on your own.
10. Don’t Meet Them under Any Circumstances
If the person stalking you online asks to meet in person, do not agree to it. This is extremely dangerous and could lead to violence.
Never meet with someone you don’t know and trust, especially if they have been harassing you.
11. Report Them to the Social Media Platform
Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram all have ways to report abuse. If you are being harassed on social media, report the user to the platform. This will help to get the stalker banned from the site and hopefully stop the harassment.
12. Consider Installing a Firewall
If you are dealing with an online stalker, consider installing a firewall. So, what is a firewall? A firewall is a piece of software that helps to block unwanted traffic from your computer.
It can help stop online stalkers because it will prevent them from being able to see your IP address. This makes it more difficult for them to find out personal information about you or track your online activity.
13. Change Your Email Address, Phone Number, and Social Media Username
One of the best things you can do is change your email address, phone number, and social media username. This will make it more difficult for the stalker to contact you and could help to stop the harassment.
Also, consider changing your password on all of your accounts and using two-factor authentication.
This will help to protect your computer from hackers and prevent the stalker from getting your personal information.
14. Use a Secure Dating App to Avoid Online Stalkers
If you are looking for love online, it is essential to use a secure dating app. This will help protect your personal information and prevent online stalkers from discovering your real identity.
Some of the best dating apps for security are OkCupid, Tinder, and Bumble. To choose the best dating app, you should read reviews and compare the features of each one.
It is also important to remember that you should never meet someone in person who you don’t know and trust.
Final Words
Online stalkers are a serious problem that can have a devastating effect on your life. If you are being harassed, take action immediately and get help from the police or a support group. Using a secure dating app can help you avoid the tragedy an online stalker can bring to your life.
