Easy read version

Dealing with Cyberstalking

If someone is using the internet to scare or follow you, this is a crime. The police and courts can stop them.

What Is Cyberstalking

Cyberstalking means someone uses technology to harass or follow you. It includes:

  • Sending scary, unwanted messages 📱
  • Watching what you do online
  • Tracking where you are using apps or spyware
  • Posting things about you online to upset you
  • Contacting you through other people

You do not have to accept this. It is illegal and you deserve to feel safe.

How to Save Evidence

Before you block the person, save copies of the messages. This helps the police.

  • Take screenshots — make sure you can see the date and time
  • Write down each thing that happened, with the date
  • Save threatening emails — include the full message
  • Do not delete any messages yet

Get advice from the National Stalking Helpline before you block them. Blocking sometimes makes things worse.

How to Report to the Police

Call 101 to report cyberstalking. Call 999 if you are in danger right now 🚨

  • Tell the officer it is stalking — not just harassment. The word matters for the law
  • Ask to speak to the force's stalking unit
  • Give them your evidence — screenshots, dates, messages

The police can ask a court for a Stalking Protection Order. This stops the person from contacting you before any trial.

Court Orders That Can Protect You

You can also ask a court to protect you. A court order can:

  • Stop the person messaging, emailing, or calling you
  • Stop them coming to your home or work
  • Be granted very quickly — even the same day in urgent cases

Breaking a court order is a crime. The person can be arrested and sent to prison.

Call the National Stalking Helpline — they will help you understand all your options.

Questions people often ask

I do not know who is doing this. Can the police still help?

Yes. Police can ask platforms and internet providers for information about anonymous accounts. Your screenshots with web addresses will help them find out who it is.

Should I block the person?

Get advice first. Sometimes blocking causes the person to escalate and try other ways to contact you. Call the National Stalking Helpline before deciding.

What if the person is in another country?

UK law still protects you. Police can work with overseas forces. Report it in the UK as normal.

Can I get legal help for free?

Yes, if the stalking is connected to domestic abuse. For other cases, the National Stalking Helpline can refer you to specialist legal support.

Where to get help

See the full guide

Easy read version last reviewed 2026-06-15.