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CYBER-related stalking crimes have more than doubled during lockdown - with offenders often using smart tech to prey on their victims, police warn. North Yorkshire Police said that while the Covid restrictions may have curtailed the physical activities of stalkers, it had resulted in them turning to digital methods to cause their victims fear. The force is speaking out at the start of National Stalking Awareness Week, during which agencies across the country join together to raise awareness of stalking and its effects. Agencies such as the Suzy Lamplugh Trust – which runs the National Stalking Helpline – have reported an increase in the number of victims being stalked through new smart home technology.
CYBER-related stalking crimes have more than doubled during lockdown - with offenders often using smart tech to prey on their victims, police warn. North Yorkshire Police said that while the Covid restrictions may have curtailed the physical activities of stalkers, it had resulted in them turning to digital methods to cause their victims fear. The force is speaking out at the start of National Stalking Awareness Week, during which agencies across the country join together to raise awareness of stalking and its effects. Agencies such as the Suzy Lamplugh Trust – which runs the National Stalking Helpline – have reported an increase in the number of victims being stalked through new smart home technology.
Detective Chief Inspector Mick Richards said training for officers was improved and said the force was the first in the country to push for Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs) to stop offenders. He said: “We are committed to continually improving our understanding of stalking and harassment and our response to it. We want victims to be confident and know we will take all reports seriously.” SPOs can enforce a two year ban on offenders, but as part of the week-long awareness campaign DCI Richards said there are steps victims can take to protect themselves. He said: “In particular, don’t be tempted to block your caller, delete messages or throw away gifts as they could be used as evidence later on.
“We’re here for victims 24/7 and I’d like to reassure them their voice will be heard and we will support you.”
This week, as part of National Stalking Awareness Week, the force will be highlighting the support available to victims and how to spot the signs of stalking behaviour.
A particular focus will be around the different methods offenders use to frighten victims and the mnemonic FOUR signs of stalking – fixated, obsessive, unwanted and repeated.
Another emphasis of the campaign, led by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust charity, will be on changes since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and a notable rise in cyber offending.