Internet Crime Enabling: Stalking and Cyberstalking

Abstract

Cyberstalking is practiced by Internet abusers to harass, victimize and to mock peers, teachers, co-workers, neighbors and others. While typically framed as an individual pursuit, we suggest that it can best be understood as a collective process, both as a result of internet users’ reliance on platforms and third-party services, as well as their engagements with other internet users engaged in related data practices, including doxing. We discuss the Amy Boyer tragedy, a well-known case that led to changes in law designed to better protect individual privacy. Subsequently, the paper discusses the responsibility of data companies within the broad business dimension of Internet companies. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is suggested as a model to follow. Ethical leaders are people who care about the greater good of their employees, organization, and society rather than their own self-interests.

Keywords: Cyberstalking, Data Companies, Doxing, Harassment, Internet, Responsibility, Stalking

JEL Classification: Z00