In July 2017, the Pew Research Center’s American Trends Panel conducted a nationally representative survey of internet users’ experiences with online harassment. Others require only that the stalker’s conduct constitute an implied threat. Some state laws require that the perpetrator make a credible threat of violence against the victim. All states have anti-stalking laws, but the legal definitions vary. It targets a specific person either by directly contacting them or by disseminating their personal information, causing them distress, fear, or anger.Ĭyberstalking is a type of online harassment that involves using electronic means to stalk a victim, and generally refers to a pattern of threatening or malicious behaviors. Online harassment may involve threatening or harassing emails, instant messages, or posting information online. If you need counseling or assistance, please visit We are not able to counsel stalking victims. Please note that this guide is for informational purposes only.
