Ensure you are in immediate safety; call emergency services if there is an active threat
Document every incident with dates, times, locations, witnesses, screenshots, messages, photos, and recordings where legal
Save all evidence in multiple places and do not alter original files
Identify the type of harassment, including stalking, threats, assault, cyberharassment, or repeated unwanted contact
Contact local police or the appropriate law enforcement agency
File a formal police report and request a case number
Provide all evidence and a clear timeline of events to the officer or investigator
Ask whether the conduct meets the legal standard for harassment in your jurisdiction
Request information about protective orders, restraining orders, or no-contact orders
Follow up with the assigned detective or officer regularly
Keep a log of all further contact or incidents after reporting
Notify your employer, school, landlord, or security staff if the harassment affects those settings
Preserve any relevant emails, voicemails, social media posts, and call logs
If the harassment is online, report the accounts and preserve URLs, usernames, and timestamps
Consider consulting a criminal defense or victim rights attorney
Contact a victim advocate or local domestic violence or stalking resource center for support
If police decline to act, ask for the reason in writing and inquire about next steps
Attend court hearings if charges are filed and bring your evidence
Comply with any witness statements, subpoenas, or follow-up requests from prosecutors
Continue documenting incidents until the matter is resolved