A recent study shows that online stalking and bullying affect a lot of Internet users from the United States and most citizens believe that local law enforcement authorities have insufficient resources and capabilities to handle such incidents.
The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) issued a report to reveal that 19% of Americans have come in contact with a stalker, or received persistent unsolicited emails that relied on an aggressive approach.
This is why the NCSA in collaboration with security solutions provider McAfee released the results of the study in January, declared National Stalking Awareness Month.
“Stalking: Know It. Name It. Stop It.” This is the theme for 2012, its main purpose being to raise awareness and help users in learning how to handle these crimes.
Stalking is considered a crime in all the states and it’s not only difficult to investigate, but the stalkers stepped up their game to rely on advanced technologies while performing their activities.
The Stalking Resource Center of the National Center for Victims of Crime states that a quarter of victims reveal that their stalkers use computers, GPS devices and hidden cameras to track them.
“The Internet is an amazing tool for sharing and connecting with people. Unfortunately, there are some people who will use it to track, harass or make unwanted contact. Stalking can be dangerous and should be taken seriously,” said Michael Kaiser, executive director of the National Cyber Security Alliance.
“We encourage anyone who believes they are being victimized online to report the crime and seek help, if needed, from law enforcement or a victim service provider.”
The figures provided by Zogby International reveal that out of all the victims, only 39% report incidents to the authorities, while the rest remain silent. This is a direct result of the fact that 65% believe that local Police don’t have sufficient resources to deal with cybercrime.
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