Over the past 10 years, the number of stalking cases in the England and Wales has risen dramatically. In 2015, fewer than 3,000 cases were recorded, while in 2025 the figure exceeded 135,000. In Manchester alone, reports increased more than 100-fold — from 96 to nearly 11,000 cases.
Several factors contribute to this trend, including the digitalization of violence and improved reporting practices. In the past, stalking was often dismissed as unwanted attention rather than recognized as a criminal offense. Today, it is increasingly identified as a serious crime. At the same time, modern technologies allow perpetrators to easily track victims online. Although this pressure is often virtual, the psychological harm is very real.
Nearly half of victims experience stalking by former partners. In most cases, victims personally knew the perpetrator before the harassment began. The UK prosecution service is now developing its first action plan to address stalking in the context of digital violence.
