Stalking and harassment

Stalking and harassment is a very common feature of domestic abuse. It occurs in isolation or as part of the wider profile of abuse. 

High severity stalking and harassment can include behaviours such as:

  • constant communication
  • uninvited visits
  • loitering
  • threats to kill. 

Cyberstalking has the same definition but also includes the use of online tools and technologies. 

How to tell if you are a victim of stalking

Consider the widely used acronym FOUR that can help identify stalking. 

Is the behaviour: 

  • fixated
  • obsessive
  • unwanted and; 
  • repeated 

You can also take an online assessment on the Suzy Lamplugh Trust website.

Examples

Examples of stalking behaviour can include:

  • creating fake profiles to monitor/contact you 
  • hacking into your accounts and restricting access 
  • hacking into your smart devices (such as Amazon Alexa, wi-fi hub etc) from third party apps or if they know your login details
  • using location trackers to monitor you, such as Find My Phone, Snapchat location map, etc
  • receiving direct threats via social media or emails 
  • using your image/information to create false accounts 
  • telephone calls 
  • following you
  • making false complaints to employers
  • monitoring or spying
  • visiting your place of work
  • using cameras such as baby monitors in your home to keep an eye on you
  • putting cameras or listening devices in your home to monitor conversations.

If you are concerned that you or someone you know is a victim of stalking or harassment, please report it.

If someone is in immediate danger call 999.