8 Signs Someone Might Be Following You and What to Do
As a husband and a father, I’ve become more aware of some of the dangers that seem to be lurking around every corner. Staying aware of your surroundings is crucial and if you ever feel like someone might be following you, go with your gut instinct. These eight signs might indicate that you have a stalker or someone following you. Don’t ignore them!
1. You Keep Seeing the Same Person Everywhere
Seeing the same person multiple times in different places could be more than a coincidence. If you spot them near your workplace, gym, or favorite coffee shop, it might indicate they are tracking your movements. Pay attention to how often you see them and whether they change their clothing to avoid being recognized. If they appear at odd hours or in places you don’t usually frequent, consider it a red flag.
Some things you might consider doing are trying to take a different route home or visiting new places to see if they still follow. If the pattern continues, alert someone you trust and document your encounters.
2. A Suspicious Vehicle Is Always Nearby
A car that appears repeatedly near your home, office, or daily commute could indicate someone is watching you. Pay attention to its license plate, make, and model to confirm if it’s the same vehicle. If it remains parked for long periods near your residence, consider notifying security or law enforcement.
Again, try taking a different route to see if the vehicle follows. You can also enter a public place and wait to see if the driver lingers or leaves. If you suspect you are being followed, avoid going home immediately and contact authorities.
3. You Notice Unusual Social Media Activity
If a stranger frequently likes or comments on your posts, especially older ones, they might be tracking your activity. Receiving friend requests or messages from fake profiles could also indicate someone is trying to gather information on you.
You should always be cautious about sharing real-time locations or personal details online. Adjust your privacy settings to limit who can see your updates. If the behavior becomes persistent, consider blocking and reporting the account. Keeping your social media presence private is a strong line of defense.
4. You Receive Unwanted Gifts or Messages
Receiving unexpected flowers, letters, or gifts from an unknown sender can be a red flag. Stalkers sometimes send small items to test your reaction or make their presence known.
Even if the gifts seem harmless, do not engage with the sender. Keep any messages or packages as evidence in case you need to involve authorities. Inform a trusted friend or family member about the situation. If the behavior escalates, file a police report.
5. You Hear Strange Noises Outside Your Home
Hearing footsteps, knocks, or rustling noises near your home late at night can be unsettling. If you notice the same disturbances repeatedly, someone could be watching your home. Check for footprints, cigarette butts, or unfamiliar objects around your property.
Installing security cameras or motion sensor lights can deter unwanted visitors. Avoid investigating noises alone; instead, call someone or notify authorities. Stay alert and always lock your doors and windows.
6. Your Personal Information Has Been Compromised
If your mail is tampered with, or you notice unauthorized access to your email or bank accounts, someone may be gathering data on you. Identity theft is often a tactic used by stalkers to gain personal details.
Take the time to monitor your financial and social media accounts for unusual activity. Enable two-factor authentication on all sensitive accounts. Shred important documents before discarding them. If you suspect a breach, report it to the appropriate authorities immediately.
7. You Feel Like You’re Being Watched
A gut feeling that someone is constantly watching you should never be ignored. If you often catch someone staring at you in public, they might be monitoring your movements. Trust your instincts and stay aware of your surroundings.
It’s a good idea to stay in well-lit, crowded areas where it’s harder for someone to follow unnoticed. If you feel unsafe, ask a friend to accompany you or call for assistance. Taking precautionary measures can help prevent potential danger.
8. Someone Tries to Engage You Repeatedly
While this isn’t always a sign that someone is following you, it can be a huge red flag. Anyone who can’t seem to take no for an answer is dangerous. If they’re trying to repeatedly engage you, they may just be testing your boundaries.
You have to be firm about your boundaries and make it clear that you aren’t interested in engaging in conversation or interacting with them. If they continue this behavior, document everything and report it to authorities. This can be ground enough for a restraining order if you feel you need it. Don’t be polite! Your safety should be more of a priority than worrying about someone’s feelings. \
What to Do If You Suspect Someone Is Following You
All of these signs are huge red flags and you should do whatever you can to protect yourself. Talk to your friends and family about the problems you are having. Make sure someone else knows what’s going on and carry items to ensure your safety, like pepper spray or a personal alarm. Don’t hesitate to call 911 if you feel you’re in immediate danger. If something feels off, take it seriously. Your well-being is worth more than trying to be polite.
Read More
The Silent Relationship Killer: 10 Words You Never Say Enough
Why Aren’t You Answering Your Phone? 8 Reasons He’s Not Answering—And None Are What You’d Expect
Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.