What is the difference between cyberstalking and digital stalking?

Cyberstalking

Cyberstalking uses the internet, social media, email and other online tools to abuse someone. It includes behaviours such as sending threatening messages, spreading false information, and hacking into personal accounts to control, intimidate, harass or stalk the victim.

Digital stalking

Digital stalking, also known as technology‑facilitated abuse, is similar to cyberstalking but uses any form of digital technology, not just the internet. This includes GPS tracking, spyware and other digital tools used to monitor someone’s activities. Both digital stalking and cyberstalking are forms of domestic abuse when carried out by a partner, ex‑partner, family member or someone closely connected to the victim.

Research from the Victims’ Commissioner (The Impact of Online Abuse: Hearing the Victims’ Voice, 2022) found that 40% of cyberstalking victims had experienced this form of abuse for more than two years.

Examples of domestic digital stalking

Domestic digital stalking can take many forms. The image below highlights how technology can be used to perpetrate abuse.

 

We are all tech-savvy

Dr. Leonie Tanczer, Associate Professor in International Security and Emerging Technologies at UCL, reminds us that we are all more tech‑savvy than we think and we should embrace technology rather than fear it. Technology is embedded in our daily lives, from phones and cars to TVs and smart devices, and it shouldn’t feel exclusive or overwhelming.  Crucially, she emphasises technology must be included in risk assessments and safety planning and recognised as part of the power and control wheel.

Key Points

  • Don’t feel overwhelmed by technology
  • Look for ways to make a positive difference
  • Always consider issues of consent and control

There are a range of actions that can be taken if safe to do so; if you are unsure, speak to the police or contact COMPASS, the Essex-wide domestic abuse service.

Find out more about how phones, laptops and other smart devices can be used to digitally abuse.

Read about AirTags and Bluetooth tracking devices.

Understand the various ways vehicles can be used to track your daily activities.

Image-based abuse (so-called “revenge porn”) is a crime.