A new report by VPNRanks says that in the midst of increasing cyber crimes, almost 23% of the internet users are going to experience cyber stalking by 2025. Out of ten Americans, almost three will be affected with nine million people overall affected by 2025. As the internet is getting available to almost all people around the world, it is natural that cyber stalkers are also going to increase. The simple definition of cyber stalking is using SMS, emails or social media to harass, threaten or stalk someone. Baby Reindeer, a Netflix show, portrays cyber stalking in a very descriptive way.
Most people may think that cyber stalking is not that common, but it has been going on for years. In 2021, there were 7% to 40% cyber stalking victims across different studies. If a person is experiencing stalking in real life, there is also a high chance that he or she can become the victim of cyberstalking. VPNRanks reports that 70% of the cyber stalking victims know their stalkers are afraid of them in case they harm them physically.
In 2019, almost 1.5 million people were victims of cyberstalking, with most being 16 years or older. There are some reasons why cyberstalking is becoming so common and easy. As the internet is becoming accessible, many bad actors are using it negatively. There are also hacking tools that these cyber stalkers use to harass and threaten their victim.
Another big reason is that many people are not aware of cyber stalking and the laws that conclude it as a crime. Authorities should take measures to raise awareness about digital security among people. It is important for every internet user to know about cyber bullying so they can take action if they ever experience cyber bullying.
Image: DIW-Aigen
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