Written by: Jose M. Lukose & Abayomi O. Agbeyangi
Abstract: The study explores the awareness, psychological impact, and coping mechanisms related to cyberstalking among university students. Cyberstalking involves using digital platforms to harass, threaten, or monitor individuals, posing growing risks in academic environments. A survey of 60 students from Walter Sisulu University’s Chiselhurst campus employed a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative analysis with a thematic review of open-ended responses. Findings revealed high awareness (80%) of cyberstalking and strong recognition of its mental health effects, with anger (48.8%), sleep disorders (30.2%), and headaches (23.3%) reported as the most common symptoms. While 47% of students blocked the stalker and changed passwords, only a small number reported incidents to authorities, highlighting a gap between awareness and action. Coping strategies such as reducing internet usage (33.3%) were common but potentially harmful to students’ academic engagement. The study also found that prior exposure and higher internet usage correlated with more proactive responses. Students suggested alternative measures like informing employers or using another device to report spyware-related threats. The findings call for institutional interventions, including cyber safety education, reporting support, and mental health counselling.
Keywords: Cyberstalking, higher education, digital harassment, online safety, student awareness, cybersecurity, internet behaviour