What should I do if I´m being stalked?

Situation

A person is described as being the victim of a stalker when he/she is constantly being harassed, among other things on the telephone, being followed or physically abused. Stalkers can be quite inventive.

Anyone can be a victim of stalking – man or woman, teenager or adult. The stalker can be an ex-partner, colleague or a total stranger.

Stalkers  can seriously inhibit the victim´s life.

What can you do?

• you should tell the stalker in no uncertain terms that you do not want any contact with him/her

• then ignore the stalker and do not allow any form of contact

• be consistent

• report the stalker to your local police even if the stalker is a stranger

• if you are driving a vehicle and realize that you are being followed by the stalker, drive directly to the nearest police station

• if you are being threatened, call the police immediately on 110 (toll-free emergency number) and attract the attention of passers-by or neighbours and ask them to help you. They will also be able to provide statements later

• if you have not ordered anything, do not accept parcels. Tell your neighbours not to accept parcels on your behalf

• Inform family and friends, neighbours and colleagues

• Apply to the court for a temporary injunction order. If the stalker ignores this there are further legal steps that can be taken

• make notes, save and document anything which the stalker sends you which can be used as evidence (Screenshots, chat protocols,  SMS etc.)

• get in touch with a victim support group

• be careful with personal data as well  as photos. Do not throw things like this in the trash. A stalker may retrieve them and use them to your disadvantage

• if you have to consult a doctor or go into therapy, ask the doctor/therapist to document your state of health and if necessary pass this information on to the police officer who is dealing with your case

• keep a `stalking diary` in order to document the serious effect it is having on your life