Internet technologies can create hospitable environments for certain criminal behaviors. A new concern known as “cyberstalking,” which is the use of information and communication technology (ICT) to harass individuals, has recently emerged as a new and growing problem. This article explores the definition of stalking and cyberstalking in modern society. While some researchers view cyberstalking as an extension of conventional stalking, the argument is made within this article that cyberstalking should be regarded as an entirely new form of deviant behavior. Cyberstalking does, however, share important characteristics with offline stalking. The significant similarities are the gender of the victim, motivation of stalker, relationship, and behaviors. The significant challenges for law enforcement include officers lacking awareness and skills in recognizing and investigating cyberstalking cases; jurisdictional and statutory authority limitations; and difficulties in obtaining internet account information of suspects. At last, the author submits concrete execution and legislation suggestions to solve the challenges mentioned above. As to legislation, the author suggests that clear laws which specifically prohibit cyberstalking via certain forms of communication and protect victims may be of help in addressing the growing cyberstalking problem.

(The expanded abstract is excerpted and adapted from the article cited above)