A recent survey carried out on behalf of Norton, a consumer cybersecurity brand, found concerning attitudes toward online stalking among Gen Z and Millennials.
According to the survey results, more than one-third of Gen Z (ages 18-25) and Millennials (ages 26-42) do not mind being stalked online by a current or former partner as long as they are not stalked in person. This figure is more than three times that of older adults (aged 58 and up).
The survey also shed light on the most common tactics used for online stalking. The results showed that the most popular methods include checking a current or former significant other's phone to view texts, calls, direct messages, emails, or photos (16%), reviewing the device search history (12%), and tracking a current or former partner's location using a location sharing app (11%).
What Is Cyber Stalking?
Cyberstalking is when someone keeps getting in touch with you online without your permission. It can include any number of things, such as threats, libel, defamation, sexual harassment, or other actions meant to control, influence, or scare the person they are after.
When people stalk someone online, they might also do it in real life. In many states and countries, it is against the law, and people could be charged with a specific crime or under laws against harassment and stalking.
Based on a TechRadar report, online stalking can take many forms, including checking messages, calls, and photos; browsing search history; and tracking location using apps like Find My.
These methods take advantage of vulnerabilities in smartphones, and this can quickly advance from "curious" searches to the insertion of stalkerware and creepware apps that covertly monitor activity. Most Americans don't know about these kinds of apps, which shows that there is a need for more education and awareness on the subject.
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The study also discovered that a sizeable percentage of Americans are also victims of online dating scams in addition to online stalking. One in four people in the United States have fallen victim to an online dating or romance scam, with 53% of those victims losing an average of $230.
Anti-Online Stalking Tips
The concerning results of the research at hand have prompted the senior technical director of Norton Labs, Kevin Roundy, to speak out on the issue. Roundy stated, "This research is a wake-up call." "The fact that so many Gen Z and Millennials think online stalking is acceptable tells us that more needs to be done to educate the younger generations about the dangers."
Roundy went on to say that there is a difference between being curious and invading someone's privacy. He urged people to protect their privacy by securing their devices and personal information, which is critical not only for their cyber safety but also for their physical and mental well-being.
Norton is actively addressing the issue of online stalking. The company opposes this intrusive behavior and works to increase stalker ware detection and mitigation. Here are some of the ways people can fight off online stalking, according to a Norton blog post:
- Maintain control over your devices by always logging out of computer programs before leaving the computer and using a password-protected screensaver. This also applies to cell phone passwords. Teach your family members these habits as well to ensure their safety.
- Good password management entails never sharing your passwords with others and changing them on a regular basis to ensure their security.
- Monitor your online presence: Perform regular online searches for your name and the names of family members to see what information is available about you online. Remove anything personal or inappropriate.
- Use privacy settings in all of your online accounts to limit the information you share with people outside your trusted circle.
- Be wary of online itineraries: Delete or make private any online calendars or itineraries that include events you intend to attend. This information could lead a stalker to your location.
- Get help safely: If you suspect someone is using spyware to track your activities and you are in danger, seek assistance only through public computers or telephones.
- Use a security software: To prevent spyware from infecting your devices, use good, up-to-date security software.
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