The Internet offers new opportunities for stalking, hence the term cyber stalking . The stalker can, from the safety of his or her home, or the anonymity of an office environment, trace, track and find out personal details of the target, including address, phone number, and more sinisterly, addresses and details of the target's family. In response to the growing incidence of stalking, the UK government passed the Protection From Harassment Act in 1997. The Act has both criminal and civil provisions. In August 2000 and in a manner similar to the sexual offenders register, the UK government has suggested that a register of convicted stalkers might be appropriate for the most serious cases.
Harassment can have a devastating effect on people's lives.
Diana Lamplugh of the Suzy Lamplugh Trust welcomed the guide. At the moment they are made to feel stupid and they wonder if it's their fault. The call for a register of stalkers coincides with the launch of The Stalking Investigation Guide. Written by Detective Inspector Hamish Brown, the guide provides officers with guidance on how to deal with harassment offences and how to advise to victims of stalking. I would like to see a register of serial bullies of the type identified by Bully OnLine .