Stalking is a series of actions that make you feel afraid or in danger. Stalking is serious, often violent, and can escalate over time. (definition from the National Stalking Resource Center)
Cyberstalking is the use of telecommunication technologies such as the Internet or email to stalk another person. Cyberstalking may be an additional form of stalking, or it may be the only method the abuser employs. Cyberstalking is deliberate, persistent, and personal.
Spamming with unsolicited email is different from cyberstalking. Spam does not focus on the individual, as does cyberstalking. The cyberstalker methodically finds and contacts the victim. Much like spam of a sexual nature, a cyberstalker’s message may be disturbing and inappropriate. Also like spam, you cannot stop the contact with a request. In fact, the more you protest or respond, the more rewarded the cyberstalker feels. The best response to cyberstalking is not to respond to the contact.
For additional, current information on stalking:
National Stalking Resource Center. This website provides facts, publications and information for victims.
New York State Laws regarding stalking.