A major new study is giving voice to those affected by cyberstalking and tech-enabled abuse and calling for participants to share their experiences.
Date: 20 May 2025
A new UK-wide study led by London Metropolitan University is calling for volunteers who have experienced cyberharassment or online stalking to take part in a groundbreaking research project.
The ECHO Project, led by Professor Emma Short, is investigating the real-world impact of online abuse such as harassment, stalking, and unwanted digital contact. The study aims to give voice to those affected by technology-enabled abuse and help shape better support systems and responses.
“We know that technology can be used to exert control, intimidate, and harm,” said Professor Short. “This project is about understanding those lived experiences so we can improve safety and support for people who are affected.”
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 1.5 million adults in England and Wales experienced stalking in the year ending March 2024. Of those cases, 42% involved online abuse, including threatening messages and harassment on social media. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust reports that just 1.7% of stalking cases lead to a conviction, showing a clear need for improved support and a stronger response to these crimes.
Get involved
Participants are invited to complete a confidential online survey, which takes approximately 20–30 minutes. The survey includes space to share experiences in greater detail, if desired, and all responses are anonymous.
Who can take part?
- Anyone aged 18 or over
- Based in the UK
- Has experienced technology-enabled harassment, stalking, or persistent unwanted contact
The findings will inform future policies and practices aimed at tackling online abuse and creating safer digital environments.
The project is part of ongoing research within London Met’s Forensic Cyberpsychology Research Group, led by Professor Emma Short in collaboration with Dr Chelsea Mainwaring. The group also investigates bystander responses to online abuse and how the criminal justice system addresses technology-enabled harassment. For more information, contact Dr Mainwaring at c.mainwaring@londonmet.ac.uk.
Professor Emma Short (pictured above) is one of the UK’s only experts in cyberpsychology. She has conducted research in cyberstalking, image based sexual abuse and technology facilitated abuse since 2005, working with partners in the third sector, higher education, the police and government bodies. She continues to work with a wide network of academics and practitioners within the UK and internationally whose focus is on cyber enabled behaviours and online harms.
For further information, contact Professor Emma Short at e.short@londonmet.ac.uk.
