An Analytical study on Cyber Stalking with reference to judicial decision.

Cyberstalking refers to repeated, unwanted online behaviour intended to harass, threaten, or monitor a person. It involves the misuse of digital tools such as emails, social media, messaging apps, and fake accounts. It is distinguished by persistence and intrusion into a person’s online and offline privacy. Offenders often use anonymity to avoid detection and continue harassment. Victims experience fear, emotional distress, and psychological pressure. Cyberstalking may accompany offline stalking or escalate into physical harm. Indian law recognizes it as a punishable offence under specific provisions. Cyberstalking is borderless and can occur from anywhere in the world. It is continuous, repeated, and often intensifies over time. Offenders hide behind anonymity using fake profiles, VPNs, and digital masking tools. Victims may face emotional, mental, financial, and reputational harm. It often targets women, teenagers, and socially active individuals online. The behaviour includes monitoring, unwanted communication, threats, and impersonation. It differs from traditional stalking due to speed, ease, and technological sophistication. Common forms include online harassment, repeated messaging, cyberbullying, and sending obscene content. Techniques involve impersonation, fake profiles, hacking, doxxing, and location tracking. Offenders may use malicious software to access personal data. Social media stalking through comments, likes, and monitoring stories is widely reported. Email spoofing and anonymous messaging apps enable hidden harassment. Cyberstalkers often threaten victims to extort money or obtain favours. Technology allows offenders to maintain long-term control over victims.