One of the top concerns of many of the psychologists today has been the escalation of cyberbullying. The internet may have introduced an incredible array of learning and knowledge possibilities, but it has also opened a gateway to allow those with problems to pursue bullying in ways and intensities that have never been seen before.
Cyberstalking is one of the methods used by cyberbullies and, although a majority of the victims are children, cyberstalking can happen to adults of any age or gender. The results of this type of negativity goes beyond harassment and can enter into realms that effect those stalked and bullied to the point of extreme danger.
According to NoBullying.com, “Cyberstalking generally involves using electronic communication to harass, disturb, threaten, pursue, intimidate, or “follow” someone against their will, without their permission and to the detriment (whether it be psychological, emotional or physical) of the victim(s) in question” It falls into the bullying category and it is included in the three types of cyberbullying: “*Cyberstalking (general involving fear or threats), Cyber Harassment (being more of a nuisance), *Cyberbullying (generally involving children or students).”
Although the term ‘cyberstalking’ is relatively new, stalking itself has been around for a long time. Cyberstalking relates to the same type of behavior but is accomplished through online sources. It usually includes some type of embarrassment or humiliation as well as harassment. The dangers in cyberstalking can be taken outside of the net as cyberstalkers have been known to harm people through contact with their family, friends or even acquaintances.
Social media has become a location where cyberstalking has escalated and since it is a popular forum for youth, it is an exceptionally easy method to create the fear that the cyberstalkers are looking to cause. Cyberstalking can be taken into levels that can be both physical and emotionally dangerous. Some of the stalkers are on a continual search to elevate the stalking behavior and if cyberstalking is recognized, it must be reported before it gets out of hand. As indicated by NoBullying.com: “Cyberstalking is a very complicated type of crime. Persons who want to improve safety on the Internet or activate better prevention programs, need to contact organizations working to make the Internet safer.”…”Cyberstalking is a form of social terrorism—accordingly, it’s expected that laws dealing with this crime will become more and more stringent and merciless.”
“As professionals in the internet safety world, Da Vinci Foundation views cyberstalking and cyberbullying as method of personal attack. We work diligently with businesses and communities to inform and educate for the recognition and reporting of these types of crimes. To stop cyberbullying in all of its forms, people need to have a resource that involves education and the types of actions that can be taken. Da Vinci Foundation is committed to this cause and has established an online, safe-haven solution to help children as well as adults in addressing this serious issue; making knowledge the method to empower everyone in the control of their lives.
Sharon Knowles, CEO of DaVinci Forensics
source: http://nobullying.com/cyberstalking-20-important-facts/