Real-time social media posts fuel stalking concerns in Estonia

A TikTok warning has circulated about the dangers of sharing real-time locations on social media, which can facilitate stalking and obsessive behaviour. Estonia is seeing a rising number of stalking cases, with more complaints reaching police.

Concerns over stalking have grown in Estonia, fuelled by the sharing of real-time locations and activities on social media. TikTok users are warning that constant real-time posting and showing recognizable locations can make a person an easy target for someone who becomes obsessively attached.

The danger lurks on social media

Experts say people may not consider the risks of constantly sharing their daily routines, favourite places and neighbourhood details. If someone wants to track you down, regular real-time posting gives them an excellent opportunity — they know where you are, when you go there, and how long you stay.

The problem is not limited to celebrities or public figures. Anyone who shares their life on social media can become the unwanted focus of someone's attention. For this reason, it is recommended to post pictures and videos later, not at the moment when you are actually somewhere.

Cases reach police

Stalking is a criminal offence under Estonian law, and according to police, such complaints are reaching the authorities increasingly often. Stalking can manifest itself in physical surveillance, repeated unwanted messages, and digital tracking — including constant monitoring of a person's social media accounts.

Security experts recommend setting social media accounts to private, not sharing precise locations, and being careful about who you expose your daily routines to. If anyone feels they are being stalked, they should report it to police without delay.