A field study on cyber stalking among university students

Abstract

Internet and technology devices not only connected people around the world but also opened new ways of cybercrime including cyberstalking. Ease in accessibility of social media brought criminals to the online world and facilitated the opportunities to do crimes in the cyber world. As the internet and social media are becoming inseparable parts of human life, it is important to make these environments safe for everyone, especially youth who are driven by social media the most. Understanding the prevalence of cyberstalking will help in finding ways to combat it and also to make a safer cyber environment.

Aim: The study aims to examine the prevalence level of cyberstalking in university students between the ages of 18-30. This study will also assess the difference of cyber stalking prevalence between men and women.

Materials and Methods: A preliminary investigation was made on the prevalence level of cyber stalking in university students between the age of 18-30. Cyber ​​Obsessive Stalking Scale (Siber Obsesif Takip Ölçeği (SOTÖ)) was used to examine the stalking behaviours that people are exposed to while using electrical devices. While examining research participants, their age, gender, their anxiety about cyberstalking and if they had experienced cyberstalking or seen this behaviour in people around them were taken into account.

Conclusion: Developing technology has caused criminals to move to the online world.  The severity of the situation will be brought to light by revealing the prevalence of victimization through studies. The prevalence level can direct researchers and technology developers to create safer online environments.