Cyberstalking is when someone is using digital means to harass or monitor someone else. That often leads to intimidation, control, or fear. 

This form of stalking can take advantage of online anonymity, using social media, email, instant messaging, and other digital platforms to track the targetand gather information on them or to harass them.

Motives behind cyberstalking include harassment, intimidation or identity theft and other crimes.

Sometimes stalkers send emails, instant messages, or voicemails that can be obscene, but sometimes it is done secretly. Stalkers might also try to damage someone’s devices or use electronic tools such as malware to gather information from them.

While most stalkers are men and the targets are usually women, there are instances where women are the perpetrators. 

The consequences of cyberstalking for the target range  from annoyance to severe emotional and psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, or even suicidal thoughts. 

In response to the seriousness of these offenses, cyberstalking is recognized as a crime in many countries,  though laws and penalties vary widely.