Cyberstalking

Social networking has become a staple of this generation. Web sites like Facebook and Twitter make it easy to see what friends are doing, but it is also easy for unwanted visitors to get status and photo updates.

Cyberstalking via instant messenger, email, and social networking platforms has become more and more common in recent years.

Karen North studies online communities at the University of Southern California.

“[A potential stalker] can continue to develop his interest by looking at your pictures, following you on twitter, following you on foursquare, feeling like he’s a part of your life.  When, in fact, he’s not a part of your life. You’re a part of his life, but he’s not a part of yours,” said North.

Approximately one in four stalking victims reported some form of cyber stalking. Women are also more likely to be stalking victims, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics.