Stalking is a pattern of repeated behavior that causes someone to feel afraid, unsafe, or constantly watched. A stalker may be a current or former partner, someone you know casually, or even a stranger. Stalking is about power and control, and it can happen in person, online, through technology, or through other people.
Many stalking behaviors may seem small when viewed individually, but together they can create fear, emotional distress, and danger. Trust your instincts. If someone’s repeated actions make you feel unsafe, intimidated, or unable to live freely, it is important to take those feelings seriously.
Examples of Stalking Behaviors
- Showing up at your home, workplace, school, or other places unexpectedly
- Sending repeated unwanted texts, emails, messages, letters, or gifts
- Constantly calling, hanging up, or leaving excessive voicemails
- Monitoring your email, social media activity or online accounts
- Using technology or apps to track your location or movements
- Spreading rumors about you online or through other people
- Damaging your home, vehicle, or personal property
- Following you or watching you from nearby locations
- Contacting your friends, family, coworkers, or employer to gather information about you
- Creating fake social media accounts to monitor or contact you
- Using other people’s accounts or phones to continue communication after being blocked
- Threatening you directly or indirectly
- Repeatedly violating boundaries after being asked to stop
Technology and Digital Stalking
Technology has made stalking easier and more difficult to detect. Someone may use:
- GPS tracking devices
- Shared phone accounts or apps
- Hidden cameras or smart home devices
- Social media check-ins and location sharing
- Password access to email, banking, or social accounts
- AirTags or other Bluetooth tracking devices
If you believe someone may be monitoring your devices or accounts, avoid making sudden changes on a device the stalker may access. An advocate can help you create a safer plan.
How Stalking Can Affect Survivors
Stalking can affect every part of a person’s life. Survivors often experience:
- Anxiety and fear
- Trouble sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating at work or school
- Isolation from friends and family
- Depression or emotional exhaustion
- Changes in daily routines to avoid the stalker
- Fear for children, pets, or loved ones
We Can Help
- Hotline Outer Banks provides confidential support for individuals experiencing stalking, domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Advocates can help with safety planning, provide emotional support, provide information on protective orders, and connect you with additional resources.
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
- For confidential support, contact our 24/7 Crisis Line.
