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Online Stalking

Cyberstalking is the use of the Internet, email, or other telecommunication technologies to harass, threaten, or intimidate another person. It is an extension of stalking from physical space to cyberspace.

A cyberstalker is someone who methodically, deliberately, and persistently sends unwanted communications that do not stop even after you have requested that he or she end all contact with you. Cyberstalking may take many different forms. A cyberstalker may:

  • use the Internet to identify and track you
  • send unsolicited email, including hate mail or obscene or threatening messages
  • post messages about you or spread rumors about you through newsgroups
  • create websites that provide real or false personal information about you
  • assume your identity online (i.e., in chat rooms, instant messages, or email) to embarrass you, to pry into your personal life, or for other negative purposes.

Wisconsin state law contains provisions that protect you from cyberstalking. This includes a prohibition against using anonymous email or another means of concealing identity in order to harass someone.

There are resources online that provide more information about cyberstalking and tips on how to increase your safety on the Internet: