With increasing internet usage and growing activity on social media platforms, cybercrime incidents are rising rapidly in Mumbai. Among these, cyberstalking has emerged as a serious concern, prompting the Mumbai Police to release a public advisory urging citizens to stay cautious and adopt preventive measures.
Cyberstalking refers to repeatedly monitoring, harassing, or targeting individuals through digital platforms. This can include sending frequent messages or emails, tracking social media activity, or secretly observing users in chat rooms. In many cases, victims also receive threatening messages, making the situation both distressing and potentially dangerous.
Officials and experts say cyberstalking is carried out using various methods, often making early detection difficult. Offenders commonly create fake profiles, a tactic known as catfishing, to approach victims. They may track social media posts and location updates, use tools like Google Maps Street View to gather location details, or hack webcams to spy on individuals. In some cases, stalkerware is used to monitor movements, while geotagged photos are exploited to identify exact locations.
Studies show that over 75% of cyberstalking cases involve women. The motives behind such actions range from harassment and one-sided obsession to revenge and ego.
Police officials have stressed that cyberstalking is not just an online issue but a serious criminal offence that can escalate if ignored. They highlighted the importance of awareness and precaution in preventing such incidents.
Citizens have been advised to keep their social media privacy settings strict, avoid sharing personal information with unknown individuals, and not make sensitive details like addresses and phone numbers publicly available. The use of strong passwords and caution while opening suspicious links or emails has also been recommended.
The Mumbai Police have urged people to report any suspicious online behaviour immediately to ensure timely action and protect potential victims.
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