We’ve recently discussed how stalking charges can sometimes happen after a breakup. One person may be so obsessed with getting their ex back that they won’t leave them alone. Stalking often includes things like showing up unexpectedly at the person’s home or place of business, calling and texting them relentlessly, or following them when they’re out with friends or on a date.
All of this is still true in 2024, but it’s also important to remember that modern stalking may occur on the Internet. This is also illegal. It can cause distress and emotional issues for the victim, and it may be prohibited by a restraining order. For instance, if a person has a no-contact order and the subject of that order sends them a message on Facebook, that is often still a violation, even though they didn’t see each other in person.
What are some examples?
Online stalking can take many different forms, but some examples include:
- Sending messages that are obscene or frightening
- Repeatedly sending text messages or emails that are unwanted
- Constantly harassing the person through their social media profiles
- Creating fake profiles to continue interacting with the person after being blocked
- Tracking someone else’s Internet use or computer use
- Tracking someone’s car or location, such as using a GPS or hacking the location services on their phone
Online stalking may not carry the same level of physical danger as traditional stalking, but it is still illegal and, as noted above, could be a violation of a court order.
These allegations are significant and must be taken seriously, even though the event occurred on the internet. People sometimes believe that the artificial distance that the internet creates gives them free rein to treat others any way that they want. But stalking is still illegal, even at a distance. Those who are facing such charges must be well aware of all the criminal defense options at their disposal.