Stalking can happen to anyone by anyone. The stalker could be a former partner, friend, co-worker, or even a complete stranger. Stalkers can be unpredictable and If you feel that you are in danger, call 911. Safety planning in situations with stalking involved is very important.
If you or someone you know believes they are being stalked, whether it is online, via text/phone, or in person, here are a few ways to help:​

WHAT TO DO

Talk to Someone: 
  • Telling others about what you’re experiencing is one way to take power back from your stalker. Keeping it a secret gives the stalker more opportunity to keep stalking, which often escalates. 
  • Inform your parents, a friend, neighbor, co-worker, school, or place of employment- which can assist you in possibly being safer and can support you in seeking assistance and help.
  • Contact an advocate for more help. 
Consider Filing a Protection Order:  
  • In Indiana, you can now file a protection order under stalking. Keeping a log of stalking incidents makes it easier to get a protection order granted because you will have evidence to provide. Protection Orders are FREE to fill out and submit. Crisis Connection advocates are always here to assist you with this. ​

SAFETY PLANNING

If you are being stalked, safety planning is crucial. There are a lot of things to consider, a few of which are listed below. For a more detailed and comprehensive plan please contact an advocate at Crisis Connection.
 
Digital Safety: 
  • This could mean checking the privacy settings on your locations and apps (such as, but not limited to Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, etc.), blocking numbers, changing your number, or even being aware of who is allowed to be seeing your posts and information. 
Vary Your Routine: 
  • Change up the route you take to work or school every day. Be aware of your surroundings, and if you notice your stalker following you, never drive to your house or somewhere you will be alone- go to a public place, or better yet, drive straight to the police station.
Calling the Police: 
  • Stalkers do not usually stop on their own. The earlier you get the police involved, the safer you will be. 
Record What Is Happening: 
  • Keep a log of incidents. Document any dates, times, places, and actions taken. It will also help the victim to see a pattern of behaviors. Keep any messages or evidence on your phone or social media that you feel could be threatening or show the repeated acts of stalking.
Always Keep a Phone on You: 
  • This can be crucial for your safety and can assist you in documenting any stalking incidents

Supporting a loved one

If someone you know is being stalked, they may need your help to keep them safe. Stalkers will go to no end to reach their victim. 
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Learn the Sings: 
  • Being aware of the signs of stalking can help your loved one identify what is happening to them. 
Be a Support:
  • The more people on the lookout for the stalker, the less chance he/she will have to find the victim. Never give out a victim’s information to someone stalking them.
Safety Plan:
  • Take an active role in safety planning with the victim. You may want to consider adding additional safety measures to your own home in case the victim needs a safe place to stay.