How to Report Online Harassment To Police

Understanding Online Harassment

Online harassment is a serious issue that affects many individuals, particularly women, minorities, and vulnerable populations. It can take many forms, including cyberstalking, online threats, harassment via telecommunications, and identity theft. The impact of online harassment can be profound, causing significant emotional distress, anxiety, and fear. In severe cases, it can even lead to serious bodily injury or death. It’s crucial to recognize that online harassment is a crime and should be reported to law enforcement agencies to ensure your safety and hold the perpetrator accountable.

In the United States, there is no federal law specifically prohibiting online harassment. However, there are several state laws that criminalize certain types of online activity, and there are also several federal laws that can be used to prosecute harassers in certain circumstances.

Reporting online abuse to the federal government can be confusing and intimidating for individuals, especially when deciding whether to approach federal authorities or local law enforcement. Severe cases of online abuse, such as stalking or hacking, may warrant federal attention, while local police can help create a paper trail for potential federal reporting.

For example, the Communications Decency Act prohibits the transmission of obscene or harassing communications via interstate commerce, while the Stored Communications Act prohibits unauthorized access to stored electronic communications.

Additionally, many states have enacted laws specifically prohibiting cyberstalking, doxing, online sextortion, and other forms of online harassment.

• Cyberstalking is defined as “a crime in which the attacker stalks a victim online, typically by gathering information about them and then sending them threatening or obscene messages.”
• Cyberbullying is similar in that it involves using electronic communications to bully or harass someone, but it generally refers to attacks on minors by other minors.
• Doxing is when someone publicly posts another person’s private information—such as their home address or phone number—without their consent.
• Swatting is when someone makes a false report to emergency services in an attempt to get the police to show up at the victim’s house.
• And sextortion is when someone threatens to release intimate photos or videos of another person unless they meet certain demands.

Can I Report Online Harassment to Local Law Enforcement?

Yes, you can report online harassment to the police and you should as soon as it happens. It is crucial to recognize when online harassment escalates to a point where it poses a direct threat to personal safety, and in such cases, you should contact local law enforcement immediately.

We recommend reporting the harassment to your local law enforcement, FBI, and cyber harassment specialists to create a paper trail essential for further federal actions if necessary.

It will also be beneficial for you to reach out to an attorney to see what legal options you have for your specific case of cyber harassment.

How to Report Someone for Online Harassment to the Internet Crime Complaint Center

Alongside reporting the abuse on the platform where it’s taken place, victims of online harassment have the option of reporting the abuse to other organizations. Below are three options you can report and get the help you need.

To report harassment to the police, do the following

• Gather as much evidence of the harassment, be as detailed as possible
• Bring your evidence to your local precinct
• Speak to a police officer to make a report

To report harassment to the FBI, do the following

• Go to IC3.gov
• Click “file a complaint”
• Follow the steps and provide all of your evidence
• Submit

The FBI is the lead federal agency in investigating cyber crimes and threats, coordinating responses to cyber-enabled crimes, and protecting national and economic security.

To report harassment to cyber harassment specialists, do the following

• Research cyber harassment specialists such as us Digital Investigation
• Speak to a representative
• Ask questions about what they do and how they can help

If you’re being harassed online, know that you’re not alone—and that there are options available to you. While not all forms of online harassment are illegal, there are still steps you can take to hold the person responsible accountable and put an end to the abuse. If you’re unsure of where to start or what your next steps should be, confide in someone you love and report the harassment to authorities if you feel like your life is in danger. The police will be able to advise you on your specific situation and help you determine what course of action is best for you moving forward.

Filing a Complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

If you are a victim of online harassment or cyber-enabled crime, filing a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) is a crucial step. IC3, a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center, tracks and investigates internet-facilitated crimes. To file a complaint, visit the IC3 website and fill out an online form. You will need to provide detailed information about the crime, including the date, time, and location of the incident, as well as any relevant details about the perpetrator. This helps law enforcement agencies in their investigations and efforts to combat internet crimes.

Cyber Safety and Response

Cyber safety is paramount in preventing online harassment and cyber-enabled crime. Here are some tips to help you stay safe online:

• Use strong, unique passwords and keep them confidential.
• Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
• Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Regularly update your software and operating system.
• Use a reputable antivirus program to protect your devices.
• Stay vigilant about your online surroundings and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.

If you find yourself a victim of online harassment or cyber-enabled crime, responding quickly and effectively is crucial. Here are some steps you can take:

• Document all incidents, including dates, times, and details of the harassment.
• Save all evidence, such as emails, messages, and screenshots.
• Report the incident to law enforcement and file a complaint with IC3.
• Seek support from friends, family, or a counselor to help you cope with the emotional impact.
• Consider taking steps to protect your online identity, such as changing your passwords and using a VPN.

Additional Resources

If you are a victim of online harassment or cyber-enabled crime, numerous resources are available to assist you. Here are some additional resources you can turn to for help:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• National Center for Victims of Crime: 1-855-484-2846
• FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): ic3.gov
• Cyber Civil Rights Initiative: cybercivilrights.org
• Online Harassment Field Manual: onlineharassmentfieldmanual.org

Remember, online harassment is a serious issue that affects many individuals. If you are a victim, it is essential to know your rights and seek help from law enforcement and other resources.