Five Tips to Protect Yourself from Cyberstalking

In the times we are living, somewhere we have become extremely dependent upon using technology to connect. With the pandemic, we have been more active in the digital space wherein working from home, attending school/college virtually, etc. has become the ‘New Way’ of leading life. Technological advancement and the rise in using social media platforms have also made it easier for stalkers to easily monitor and harass their targets. In the digital space, online stalkers collect information and terrorize the target without any physical contact. We are exposed to various types of threats daily. You can secure yourself from potential cyber threats and risks with the Bajaj Allianz Individual Cyber Safe Insurance Policy.

What is Cyberstalking?

In simple words, cyberstalking is using emails, direct messaging, or any electronic means to scare, harass, intimidate or threaten a selected victim without causing any physical harm. A cyberstalker usually targets the victim on social media. It could be through a troll, sending threatening/scary messages, or hacking emails. Or even communicating with the target's close ones. There are times when your social media profiles may be stalked, spread false rumors, or even create fake account IDs. Our new normal has indeed made an easier way for cyberstalkers to track and harass the selected victim. Hence, it becomes extremely important to safeguard ourselves from cyberstalking. Every time we are online we are exposed to various threats. Having a cyber insurance policy will give you the optimum protection throughout.

Is There a Difference Between Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying?

But before delving into knowing tips it is extremely important to understand the difference between cyberstalking and cyberbullying. The term cyberstalking is used more when the victim is an adult. However, cyberbullying is used when the victim is an adolescent, teen, or child. Cyberstalking indicates online activities that cause a sense of fear in the victim's mind for physical safety, Cyberbullying is mostly emotionally harming or distressing a victim.

Handy Tips to Safeguard Yourself Against Cyberstalking

A common denominator in cyberstalking is the technology and each cyberstalking case is different. Here’s a rundown of key tips that will help to remain safe against cyberstalking:

1. Search Your Full Name: First thing first! Look for your complete name along with the city/state on any of the preferred search engines like google. This will help you to see the information that is easily available in the public domain. This will help you to adjust your privacy settings online.
2. Review Your Social Media Handles: As a good hygienic practice, it's always good to review your social media handles. You may even ask your family/friend to not give out your details to anyone. It is recommended to turn off the location services across other platforms.  Disable any public itineraries and calendars. It's always a good practice to also review your friend list and likewise remove/unfollow unknown individuals.
3. Create Strong Passwords: It is recommended to create strong passwords. Besides, you may change or reset your passwords across all handles once or twice a month. Ensure to have strong passwords and not something that can be guessed easily. For more protection, use two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication is helpful when someone else tries to log in as you will receive a communication about the unauthorized access. Never share your password with anyone.
4. Secure Your Electronic Devices: You should avoid sending any personal data or information over public Wi-Fi. It is suggested not to conduct any monetary business at places with access to free Wi-Fi. It is better to conduct any such important transactional activity on a secured private network or via a virtual private network. Cover the webcam when it is not in use. Scan your computer or mobile device regularly. It is better to install an anti-virus or anti-spyware date.
5. Have a Cyber Insurance Plan: A right cyber insurance policy will ensure that you remain protected in the aftermath of any cyber attack. It also protects the online presence of each individual who has the plan. Having suitable cyber insurance coverage enables you to remain safeguarded from 10 major cyber attacks.*

*Standard T&C apply

Wrapping it Up

Today, each one of us is available on some other social media platform. Be careful of what you post online. The more you post about yourself, the more information the harasser can use to stalk you. In case you or someone you know is facing cyberstalking ensure to keep digital records of any such emails, messages, screenshots, etc. handy. Ensure to report the stalker to the platform on, which the harassment occurs. If the matter is critical, do not be scared and take the help of the police. Cyberstalking remains a threat; however, being vigilant and taking these steps will help you remain protected. Remain cyber-safe with a cyber insurance policy.
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