 | Cyberstalking . . . A mental health and safety issue
|
Cyberstalking is the act of stalking using the Internet, e-mail, or other electronic communication devices. Cyberstalking, at a minimum, disrupts lives or can spiral out of control if it gets to a point where the victims fear for their safety, or even their lives. It is a form of abuse and, as with other forms of abuse, victims and perpetrators can be either men or women. The perpetrator is typically someone known to the victim. A victim of cyberstalking at home may even find the trauma following him or her to the workplace.Why do people stalk?
In many cases it is an infatuation or obsession with a person of the opposite sex and the need to control that person. It may be harassment by another employee harboring animosity toward the victim. It may be harassment by an ex-spouse, ex-boyfriend, or ex-girlfriend over a marriage or romance that has gone sour. It may be meant to frighten the victim or seek revenge for a perceived injustice. It may be what was intended to be innocent flirtation that got out of hand. Cyberstalkers feel they are anonymous and can get away with anything. A potential stalker unwilling or unable to confront a victim in person or on the telephone may not hesitate to send harassing or threatening electronic communications. What can you do if you feel you are a victim of cyberstalking at work?
Reply civilly to the electronic communication stating clearly once, and only once, that you do not wish to receive any further communications. If you continue to receive unwanted messages, do not reply as this may only encourage the stalker. Save all communications. Print out the messages making sure that copies of electronic mail contain full headers.Who should you notify if you believe you are a victim of cyberstalking?
Immediately bring the incident to the attention of your supervisor and network administrator. Your supervisor will determine the next appropriate action, such as calling the Customs Technical Support Center, which is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days per week at (703) 921-6000 or toll free at (800) 927-8729. Supervisors may also enlist the services of the Customs Computer Security Incident Response Center at (703) 921-6507. The Office of Internal Affairs investigates threatening electronic messages believed to originate from within the agency, while communications from an outside source may be looked into by the Office of Investigations.Dealing with harassment or threats of any kind can be highly stressful. Employees who feel they require further assistance are encouraged to contact the Customs Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at (202) 927-5550 or (800) 755-7002, for confidential assistance and support. |
|
