What to Do If You’re Being Stalked

Common Types of Stalking

• Ex-partner stalking (most common)

• Cyberstalking (online harassment, fake profiles, tracking)

• Workplace stalking

• Stranger stalking

• Obsessive or fixation-based stalking

Early Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Behavioral Red Flags

• Excessive calling or messaging despite being told to stop

• Appearing at places you didn’t disclose

• Knowing personal details they shouldn’t know

• Sending gifts, letters, or notes repeatedly

• Monitoring your daily routine

Digital & Online Indicators

• Fake social media accounts watching your activity

• Repeated friend requests after being blocked

• Tracking through shared apps or devices

• Email or phone account breaches

If something feels “off,” trust your instincts—they are often the first warning sign.

Immediate Steps to Take If You’re Being Stalked

1. Prioritize Your Safety

• Avoid confrontation

• Change daily routines when possible

• Inform trusted friends, family, or coworkers

• Identify safe places and emergency contacts

• If you’re in immediate danger, call 911

2. Clearly Tell the Person to Stop (Once)

If it’s safe to do so, send one clear message stating:

“Do not contact me again.”

Do not engage further after that. Continued contact strengthens your case.

3. Document Everything

Evidence is critical in stalking cases.

Create a log that includes:

• Dates and times of incidents

• Screenshots of messages, emails, and calls

• Photos or videos of the person near your location

• Witness names (neighbors, coworkers)

• Social media activity or fake accounts

Never delete messages—even if they’re disturbing.

How Law Enforcement Can Help

Filing a Police Report in Texas

You can report stalking to your local police department. Bring:

• Your incident log

• Digital and physical evidence

• Any prior warnings or restraining orders

Even if charges aren’t filed immediately, creating a record is essential if the behavior escalates.

Protective Orders & Legal Options

A court may issue:

• Temporary restraining orders

• Protective orders

• No-contact orders

These orders become powerful tools when violated.

When to Hire a Private Investigator

How a Professional Investigation Helps

A licensed Texas private investigator can:

• Identify the stalker if their identity is unclear

• Conduct surveillance legally and discreetly

• Document patterns of behavior

• Preserve evidence for court

• Assist attorneys and law enforcement

• Detect digital or physical tracking methods

Why Professional Evidence Matters

Investigator-gathered evidence is:

• Time-stamped

• Objective

• Court-ready

• Harder to dispute

This can make a critical difference in protective orders, criminal charges, or civil cases.

Cyberstalking: A Growing Threat

Steps to Protect Yourself Online

• Lock down social media privacy settings

• Remove personal information from public sites

• Change passwords and enable two-factor authentication

• Scan devices for spyware or tracking apps

• Avoid location tagging in real time

When Digital Forensics Are Needed

If you suspect hacking, tracking, or data misuse, a professional investigation can uncover:

• IP patterns

• Fake or burner accounts

• Unauthorized access

• GPS or app-based tracking

What Not to Do If You’re Being Stalked

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Don’t engage emotionally or argue

• Don’t retaliate or threaten

• Don’t post about the stalker online

• Don’t try to investigate alone

• Don’t assume it will “go away”

Stalking often escalates when ignored.

Emotional Impact and Support

You’re Not Overreacting

Stalking causes:

• Anxiety

• Sleep disturbances

• Fear and hyper-vigilance

• Loss of normal routine

Seeking help is a sign of strength—not weakness.

Support Resources

• Victim advocacy groups

• Counseling or trauma specialists

• Legal aid organizations

• Trusted professionals and investigators

Final Thoughts: Take Action Early

Stalking is a serious threat to your safety and well-being. The earlier you act—by documenting behavior, protecting yourself, and involving professionals—the stronger your position becomes.

If you believe you’re being stalked in Texas, you don’t have to face it alone. The right steps, taken early, can stop the behavior and restore your peace of mind.