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Cyberstalking is the exception, not the rule

The Internet is an amazing place. But the fact that it is a wonderful place to work, play and study does not mean users shouldn't be aware of its dark side. The Web mirrors the real world. That means it also contains electronic versions of real life problems. Stalking and harassment are problems that many people, especially women, are familiar with offline.

These problems can also occur on the Internet, in what has become known as "cyberstalking".

So, how prevalent is it · why does cyberstalking occur as often as it does and why are so many people online out of control?

How Prevalent Is It?

Anyone can be stalked online, but the majority of its victims as in real life, are female. Stalking estimates show that 80% of stalking victims are women. And most cyberstalkers are male. That does not mean that they are never women, for women too stalk. Just that the majority are male.

Why Does Cyberstalking Occur As Often As It Does?

The anonymity of live chat can facilitate rudeness and insensitivity. The experience of real-time online communications can be similar in effect to the consumption of alcohol - the lowering of inhibitions and an increase in directness.

Another factor is that Cyberstalking is much easier to practice than real life stalking - in cyberspace a stalker can harass and victimize their target without leaving the comfort of their living room

Why Are So Many People Online Out Of Control?

If you have ever thought that by virtue of owning a computer and having access to the Internet must by definition make a person intelligent, professional, kind and respectful - think again. There are just as many predators on the web as there are in real life. What is different is the methods they use to victimize. Some will follow you around claming unending love, and unable to take no for an answer. Sometimes this harassment can become a campaign of hatred towards you, hurling threatening messages of hate and obscenity. If this is not upsetting enough, the situation can escalate to where the stalker traces your home address and/or telephone number which puts you in physical danger as well as emotional stress.

As in real life, a minority of predators are abusing this wonderful new technology to prey on the innocent. Not all predators are street punks with no education. Some are university graduates and professionals as well. Again, a mirror of the real world we live in.