What can I do about someone constantly tracking and messaging me online?

A person keeps following my social media activity, messaging me repeatedly despite being blocked, and shows up wherever I post I'll be. I have been reading conflicting things online and I would like to understand what Indian law actually says about this, which Act and Section applies, what the realistic timelines and costs are, and what I should be doing right now to protect my position. If the matter can be resolved without litigation I would prefer that route, but I want to know what my rights are before I agree to anything or sign any document.

What can I do about someone constantly tracking and messaging me online? is governed in India primarily by Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 – Section 78, Information Technology Act, 2000 – Section 66A (struck down, cite BNS instead) and Code of Criminal Procedure/BNSS provisions on FIR. The short answer is set out below, followed by the practical steps most people in this situation need to take. Read it alongside the specific provisions named, because the exact relief available to you turns on the facts you can prove on paper.

Section 78 of the BNS (replacing IPC Section 354D) punishes stalking — monitoring a woman's internet, email or electronic communication usage, or contacting her despite disinterest — with up to 3 years for a first conviction and up to 5 years for repeat offences.

The offence is cognizable and bailable for the first instance, but the police are still obligated to register an FIR and investigate upon a written complaint.

Preserve all screenshots, timestamps, and metadata of messages/contacts as this constitutes crucial electronic evidence under the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.

You can simultaneously request the platform to block/report the stalker's account and preserve their data via a written notice, which can later be summoned by police.

A protection order can also be sought under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act if the stalker is a family member or intimate partner.

What to do next: 1) Block the stalker but save screenshots and message logs before doing so; 2) File a written complaint at the local police station or cybercrime.gov.in citing Section 78 BNS; 3) Request the platform to preserve account data for the investigation; 4) Seek a protection order if the stalker is a partner or family member.

If the other side has already issued a notice, filed a case or set a deadline, treat the matter as time-sensitive — most remedies under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 – Section 78 carry limitation periods, and a delay you cannot explain weakens an otherwise strong case. You can post the details on the MyVakeel forum for a practising advocate to review, or book a paid consultation with a Bar Council verified lawyer in this practice area.

Disclaimer: This information is for general awareness and does not constitute legal advice. Statutes and their interpretation change, and outcomes depend on the facts of your case. Please consult a qualified advocate before acting on it.