Cyber stalking refers to the use of the internet, email, social media, or other electronic communication tools to harass, threaten, or stalk a person. It involves persistent and unwanted contact or surveillance that causes fear, distress, or harm to the victim.
Unlike traditional stalking, cyber stalking can occur without physical proximity, making it easier for stalkers to remain anonymous and harder for victims to detect or avoid them.
Common Forms of Cyber Stalking:
- Sending Threatening Emails or Messages: Repeated, abusive or threatening communication.
- Monitoring Online Activity: Constantly watching someone’s social media profiles or interactions.
- Impersonation: Creating fake accounts in the victim’s name to harass them or damage reputation.
- Spreading False Information: Posting lies or defamatory content online.
- Using GPS or Spyware: Tracking someone’s location or device without consent.
- Cyber Bullying: Targeting someone online with harmful or demeaning content repeatedly.
Motives Behind Cyber Stalking:
- Revenge or Jealousy
- Obsession or Infatuation
- Control and Intimidation
- Mental Illness
- Personal Vendettas (Ex-partners, rivals)
Legal Provisions in India:
Under the IT Act, 2000:
- Section 66A (Struck down in 2015): Earlier dealt with offensive messages electronically.
- Section 66E: Punishes violation of privacy through capturing or publishing images of private areas.
- Section 67: Deals with publishing or transmitting obscene material.
- Section 72: Punishes breach of confidentiality and privacy.
Under the Indian Penal Code (IPC):
- Section 354D (Inserted by Criminal Law Amendment Act, 2013):
Specifically addresses stalking, including cyber stalking.
It defines stalking as: “Any man who follows a woman and contacts, or attempts to contact such woman to foster personal interaction repeatedly despite a clear indication of disinterest…” Punishment:- First conviction: Imprisonment up to 3 years and fine.
- Second or subsequent conviction: Up to 5 years and fine.
Impact on Victims:
- Mental trauma – anxiety, depression, and stress.
- Loss of privacy – constant fear of being watched.
- Reputation damage – personal or professional harm.
- Fear and insecurity – victims may feel unsafe online or offline.
Precautionary Measures:
- Do not share personal information openly on public forums.
- Use strong privacy settings on social media.
- Block and report stalkers immediately.
- Keep evidence (screenshots, emails, URLs) for legal action.
- Change passwords and secure devices.
- File a complaint with the Cyber Crime Cell or online at cybercrime.gov.in.
Notable Example:
- A 2012 Delhi case involved a software engineer who was arrested for sending hundreds of threatening and obscene emails to a woman who had rejected his advances. He used multiple fake accounts and VPNs to avoid being traced.
Conclusion:
Cyber stalking is a serious digital offence that violates an individual’s privacy and safety. With the increasing use of digital platforms, vigilance and legal enforcement are crucial to ensure that perpetrators are identified and punished, and victims are protected and supported.
