Cyber technology has impacted interactions between offenders and victims in many ways. One of which being that cyber technology has provided a new channel for harassment and stalking. Victims’ movements can now be tracked by stalkers, and in addition to that, stalkers can gain access to a victims messages, and monitor their online activity. They use this information to intimidate and harass their victims. Cyberstalkers often create anonymous or fake accounts to hide their identity, which makes it difficult for victims’ to know who they really are, as well as making it difficult for law enforcement to track them down.
Cyber technology has also had an impact on cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is the use of digital communication tools to harass and intimidate others. It takes many forms, through embarrassing videos and/or pictures, to spreading rumors, or in some cases making threatening comments. Being a cyberbully is quite easy, as you can keep your identity a complete secret, and also make multiple anonymous accounts in the case a victim blocks the bully. The anonymity of cyberbullying can also embolden bullies, which can make a victim feel as if there is no escape to the constant harassment that they receive.
Fortunately, cyber technology doesn’t carry only negative impacts. One good impact of cyber technology is that cyber victims can find support and advocacy. Victims of cyberstalking or cyberbullying have access to online resources to connect with people who have experienced similar situations. They can use these resources as a safe space, or to find advice on how to deal with the problems they face. Law enforcement also uses cyber technology to investigate and prosecute cybercrimes. They use digital forensics tools to build a case against cyber offenders.