Imagine this scenario: You're scrolling through your inbox, and every time you open your e-mail, you see a flood of messages from the same person. Some are hate filled. Others are threatening. It’s unsettling, and it doesn’t stop there. Your Facebook and Instagram accounts won’t stop pinging. This individual has left dozens of comments on your posts, tagged you in unsettling photos, and sent more direct messages than you can count.
At first, you brush it off. But the messages keep coming. Not only that, they are becoming more frequent, more aggressive, and more offensive. You start feeling anxious just picking up your smartphone. That sinking feeling that someone’s watching your every online move is more than just mere paranoia—this could be cyberstalking.
If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, you’re not alone. Cyberstalking is a growing concern, and North Carolina has laws in place to protect people from this very type of harassment.
What is cyberstalking?
Under NCGS § 14-196.3, cyberstalking is a criminal offense that involves using electronic communication to harass, threaten, or intimidate someone. This can include emails, text messages, direct messages, social media posts, and more.
The law specifically prohibits actions like:
- Sending messages with the intent to threaten, terrify, harass, or embarrass someone.
- Repeatedly communicating with someone in a way that causes them substantial emotional distress.
- Using electronic devices to track someone’s movements without their knowledge or consent.
What to do if you're being cyberstalked
If you believe you’re a victim of cyberstalking, here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:
1. Document everything
Save every message, email, or comment. Take screenshots, note the date and time of contact, and keep a detailed log of interactions. This evidence will be crucial if you decide to pursue legal action.
2. Block and report
Use the block and report features on social media platforms and messaging apps. While this won’t stop a determined stalker from creating new accounts, it sends a clear message that their behavior isn’t welcome.
3. Contact the police
Cyberstalking is a criminal offense in North Carolina. You can file a report with local law enforcement, and if the behavior violates the law, charges may be brought against the harasser.
4. Seek a protective order
Under North Carolina law, victims of cyberstalking can apply for a 50C Civil No-Contact Order, which prohibits the stalker from contacting or harassing them further. Violating this order can lead to criminal penalties.
Cyberstalking penalties in North Carolina
Cyberstalking in North Carolina is classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor, which can result in up to 60 days in jail and fines. However, repeat offenders or cases involving additional threats may face more severe consequences.
When Does Online Behavior Become a Crime?
Not every annoying or harassing message rises to the level of cyberstalking. However, patterns of behavior, persistent messages, and credible threats can cross the line. Intent and impact are the differentiating factors.
Intent: Was the communication meant to threaten, intimidate, or harass?
Impact: Did the victim feel significant emotional distress, or were their daily activities disrupted?
The law does not require the victim, or that a "reasonable person" would believe the cyberthreats.
Final Thoughts
The internet has changed the way we connect, but it’s also created new ways for people to harass and intimidate others. North Carolina’s cyberstalking laws are designed to protect victims and hold offenders accountable. Nobody deserves to feel unsafe—online or anywhere else.
If you or someone you know is dealing with cyberstalking, there is no need to suffer in silence. Document the behavior, reach out to law enforcement, and consult an experienced attorney who can guide you through your legal options.