Stalking is a course of conduct that places another person in a state of fear or alarm and can include being followed, constantly contacted by another person, cyber bullying, loitering, verbal abuse as well as being sent unwanted messages or gifts.
The law requires only 2 instances of stalking behavioursto sufficiently indicate a course of conduct, therefore it is helpful to carefully record or report such unwanted behaviours if you consider they are placing you in a state of 'fear or alarm'.
‘Fear and alarm’ covers physical or psychological harm, or apprehension or fear for the safety of the perceived victim or any other person. The person conducting the stalking may be known to you - such as a current or ex-partner, or may be someone you have little or no relationship with. It is never your fault.
Stalking Behaviours:
Although each situation is unique and stalkers may have different motivations, the tactics and techniques employed by each are often very similar.
- Following someone, or someone else who is associated with that person
- Contacting or attempting to contact a person by any means
- Publishing material about someone without their consent
- Monitoring someone’s phone, internet, email or other form of communication, please see our digital abuse section to read more.
- Loitering in a public or private place where you frequent
- Interfering with someone’s property
- Leaving unwanted gifts or notes for someone
- Watching or spying on someone
This is by no means an exhaustive list and each instance of stalking may present unique circumstances that are not listed above.
You can contact the police if you're being stalked. You have a right to feel safe.
If you'd prefer not to involve the police you can apply to court for civil orders – like a non-harassment order – if there have been at least 2 instances of harassment.
You can also contact Action Against Stalking or the Scottish Women's Rights Centre (08088 010 789) for specialist support and guidance.
You can contact the police if you're being stalked. You have a right to feel safe.
If you'd prefer not to involve the police you can apply to court for civil orders – like a non-harassment order – if there have been at least 2 instances of harassment.
You can also contact Action Against Stalking or the Scottish Women's Rights Centre (08088 010 789) for specialist support and guidance.