How to Deal with a Persistant Stalker

Stalkers are people who spend much of their lives focusing unwanted attention on one person, learning everything about them and sometimes even following them. It is not just scary, it is illegal. Here's how to stop a stalker in their tracks.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Start by making the person aware that you know they are stalking. In the beginning, it isn't necessary to point the finger or be harsh. Simply ask them to stop calling you at work or school. If it applies, tell them they are calling you more often than you feel comfortable with.

2. For many people, this will be enough to realize their presence is excessive and they'll stop. If they haven't and you've been polite twice now, it's time to start taking more aggressive action. Warn them that if they do not stop calling or stopping by your house, there will be repercussions.

3. Follow through on what you have warned about. Block their number from your home or cell phones, or change phone numbers if you deem it necessary. At this point reasonable discussion is not worth trying. They may feel that if constant harassment causes you to talk to them, it is worth it to continue. If the person only contacts you by phone or e-mail, stop answering their calls and emails. Eventually they will give up and stop.

4. If, however, they know where you live and continue to go there, consider filing a restraining order at your local police department. Another reason this is a good idea is because it informs the police of problems you've had in the past. That way, if a fight breaks out between you and your stalker, they will have a good idea who is causing the fight and you may have a better legal standpoint.

[myhappyheart]

on 11/21/2009 Great advice on your article. I appreciate you taking the time to write a hopefully problem solving answer!

[amysmarts]

on 11/14/2009 Great article on How to Deal with a Persistant Stalker. Great advice and great tips. 5*

[mechelle003]

on 11/12/2009 good advice, real eye opener

[xivyisazombiex]

on 11/12/2009 Stalkers are a real threat and can put your life into lock down. Great article on how to deal with a stalker

[whiteshoulder]

on 11/10/2009 Good article and great advice...there are too many people out there that do this...a jilted ex or new friend gone wrong...it is great to have the steps in order of how to go about dealing with a stalker. Everyone should read this one...just to be on the safe side.