You’re minding your own business. Instantly, you sense someone lurking in the shadows and you can’t seem to get him or her off your back. You’re feeling as if that protective shield (around you) is vulnerable or susceptible to violation at any time. More than 3.4 million people in the United States are victims of stalking by intimate partners, acquaintances or strangers; and all states have anti-stalking laws, according to privacyrights.org. But some state laws require that the perpetrator threaten the victim before the person can be accused of stalking. Stalking comes in varying degrees – sexual, physical, or mental if possible and can take place in your residence, at work or over the phone. Cyberstalking is equally as bad. As a result, it’s our duty to clue you into signs you may be targeted by a stalker.
Check it out!
1. The individual has made repeated or unwanted advances to call, meet, or see you in person and he or she is intent on winning you over (if you let them)–especially after you’ve told the person no. It’s never smart to accept an unfamilar person’s notices over the phone, via email, or in person unless you know him or her personally. It could result in reoccuring issues and/or stalker-type behavior. Also, common sense tells you to never be somewhere by yourself in a closed-off environment.
2. If you are unaware that you’re being stalked and more than several people inform you of their suspicions, you should look into it more closely to get an accurate reading. Those who love you will look out for your best interests, even if you’re not aware of the behavior.
3. Odd sightings are always the first signs of stalking. If you notice missing items, tampered phone lines, noises or come across threatening letters written by the perpetrator, it’s apparent you’re being victimized or prone to danger. Never assume the first violation will be the last. Always be on guard and inform someone of the behavior before it’s too late.
4. You can always read into someone’s behavior if their emotions escalate over time. Ex-lovers can become habitual stalkers if they feel they’re in control of you. In most cases, their demands can control your livelihood and even whom you hang around. You should never experience isolation from family and friends.
5. If that person is overly infatuated with you indirectly or directly, the person could be romancing you in an effort to get close. Always be on guard for peculiar behavior because the suspect may be trying to lure you into his or her path. Very often, their tactics could be worse. They could use revenge to have control over you.
6. Stalkers will ask about your whereabouts, or spread unflattering rumors about you to your circle of friends or family. If their destructive behavior takes effect, this could manifest in a tangled situation that’s hard to break. Again, always be on guard for suspicious on-lookers who are watching your every move.
7. If you’re being physically, sexually, or mentally harrassed in person or online, never refrain from telling others and/or the police about it. Sometimes, your first intuition can get you the help you deserve from a direct source.
8. If the stalker is persistent in his or her advances, make it clear that you don’t want to maintain communications with them. Once you sever all contact and they come back, do not hesitate to file a report to the police in case of further harassments. Steer clear to ensure your protections are insulated.
9. Investigate the frequency of stalkers in your area. Before relocating to a new city or town, find out the accurate figures from your local police station. More than 1.4 million Americans are stalked each year, according to www.aware.org. And more than 1 in 20 women are predisposed to stalking versus men. Remember, do your research!
