More people across Humberside are falling victim to stalking online
Humberside Police say more perpetrators are taking to the internet to stalk their victims.
This week, Humberside Police are raising awareness as part of National Stalking Awareness week 2021.
The theme is #UnmaskingStalking which is urging victims to come forward and report any experiences they have had of stalking.
Detective Inspector Mark Skelton of Humberside Police Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, said:
“In the Humberside Police area we have actually seen a decrease in stalking and harassment cases reported to us however it doesn’t mean we are treating it any less seriously.
“Most of what we are now seeing reported to us is online and virtual harassment and stalking which some people might just brush off and say ‘oh just ignore it’. We know it’s not always that easy and so I would always advise people to call us and report their cases to us.”
Since COVID-19 struck, 100% of cases on the National Stalking Helpline have cyber elements to them. Stalkers are relying on social media sites, spyware, and hacking devices to contact and monitor their victims.
Mark said, “Absolutely people should report their experiences. If we can help in any way to make the abuse stop we will. Reporting it to us should be a priority.
“Stalking and harassment doesn’t have to mean it takes place ‘in person’ or involves being physically followed or threatened.”
For more information and advice, you can visit: https://www.humberside.police.uk/stalking or contact the National Stalking Helpline on 0808 802 0300.