The Silent Epidemic by the Numbers.

Stalkers often escalate when ignored. Engagement should be stopped, but documentation must start immediately. Ignoring the behavior (not logging it) is dangerous.

76% of women murdered by intimate partners were stalked first. Stalking is a key predictor of future violence and homicide.

All 50 states have laws covering cyberstalking. Digital harassment is a valid ground for Orders of Protection in most jurisdictions.

While women are disproportionately affected, 1 in 6 men will be stalked in their lifetime. Men are less likely to report it due to stigma.

This 'Hollywood Myth' is dangerous. Refusal to accept 'no' is not romance; it is a lack of empathy and a desire for control, which are abusive traits.

Nearly 80% of victims know their stalker. They are often ex-partners, acquaintances, or coworkers, which makes the stalking harder to escape.

Sophisticated stalkers use 'burner' apps, spoofing, and spyware. Digital safety requires more than blocking; it requires device hygiene and privacy scrubbing.

The average duration of stalking is nearly 2 years. If it involves an intimate partner, the average duration can be even longer.

Most states criminalize 'course of conduct' that causes fear. Physical injury is not required for arrest, though evidence of fear is crucial.