A recent global study by Kaspersky involving 1000 participants across 21 countries reveals alarming trends in online dating safety. Despite a significant portion of respondents reporting experiences of online stalking, individuals remain susceptible to various forms of harassment, including unwanted messages, unauthorized filming, and tracking of their locations.

What you should know

• 27% of respondents have encountered online stalking from a newly dating partner.
• 40% reported abuse from current or past partners, with instances including unwanted emails, unauthorized filming, and location tracking.
• 39% of Singaporean males and 25% of females admit to installing monitoring tools and stalkerware on their partners’ phones.
• Globally, 37% of Malaysians and 53% of Indians acknowledge installing such invasive software.
• Kaspersky, a cybersecurity firm, emphasizes the need for awareness and collaboration to combat digital abuse, offering tips for safe online dating and resources to prevent stalkerware.

The prevalence of online stalking and abuse highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive measures when engaging in digital relationships. Kaspersky’s efforts, alongside global initiatives like the Coalition Against Stalkerware, aim to empower individuals with knowledge and tools to protect themselves from digital harm.

Suggestions from Kaspersky

• Keep passwords to yourself and make sure they are complex and unique
• If it seems too good to be true, it might just be – if in doubt check!
• Take a moment to check your own digital privacy
• Think before you share – the internet has long memory and sharing too much too soon can leave you vulnerable
• Create a ‘safe plan’ if you move from digital to real worlds
• Consider using a comprehensive cyber security or VPN solution to protect yourself

As technology continues to intersect with personal relationships, prioritizing cybersecurity becomes essential in safeguarding one’s privacy and well-being.