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46 Scary Signs of a Stalker, Common Types & How to Safely Get Rid of One

Feel like someone’s following you? That’s one of the signs of a stalker. If you want them gone, learn here how to get rid of a stalker.

signs of a stalker

Stalking is a terrifying experience. You feel helpless, unsafe, and constantly on edge. Worst of all, you know you’ve seen the signs of a stalker, but people might not even believe you. Not many people know how to get rid of a stalker, either, so it might seem like your nightmare will never end.

You may feel like you’re watched everywhere you go, and even your own home doesn’t feel safe anymore. Or, you might find yourself constantly looking over your shoulder, checking your locks, and having trouble sleeping. You don’t want it to get to the point where you have to change your number, move, or quit your job. So what should you do?

Firstly, you need to understand the signs of a stalker, and whether you’re actually being stalked. Of course, it could actually be that this person works in the same building as you or goes to your gym… But you should always keep in mind: what if that isn’t the case? You need to know.

Secondly, you need to know how to banish that stalker from your life. This feature will show you the types of stalkers that are out there, the signs of stalking, and how to get rid of a stalker once and for all. [Read: The big reasons to quit cyber talking your guy’s ex]

What is stalking?

Stalking is a pattern of behavior meant to harass, intimidate, or threaten another person. It can be the typical stalker following their victim, but there are many other kinds of stalking too.

Repeatedly contacting somebody, leaving unwanted gifts, damaging somebody’s property, and making threats are all signs of a stalker.

However, stalking isn’t just something that happens in dark thrillers and cop movies. It’s much more of a regular thing than you might think.

Statistics from Harvard show that in the US, one out of every 12 women and one out of every 45 men have been stalked at some time in their lives. That works out as over 10 million people, so chances are you already know somebody who’s been through it.

Also, just because that person isn’t standing outside your house, doesn’t mean you’re not experiencing stalking. Cyberstalking is just as serious and real as IRL stalking and is becoming one of the most common ways for dangerous people to follow and intimidate others.

However, remember this: don’t listen to Hollywood. There’s nothing romantic about stalking. Stalking is a serious crime that can have a devastating impact on victims. [Read: What makes a guy creepy? 24 signs and types of men girls should avoid]

Why do people stalk?

There are many reasons why someone might stalk another person. Some stalkers are motivated by love or obsession, while others are motivated by anger or revenge.

Some stalkers are mentally ill, while others are not. Overall, it’s down to the individual stalker, the individual victim, and the individual case. [Read: How to recognize a psychopath, the types and 39 signs and ways to deal with them]

However, there are some people who stalk for clear reasons. If you have somebody following you who believes they’re in love with you, it’s likely to be a case of mental illness. They believe they’re in a relationship with you, due to a delusional condition called erotomania.

[Read: Types of creepy people and how to recognize them]

Or, if you’re being stalked by an ex or a person you have a dispute with, their motive may be revenge. They’ll commonly show more aggressive signs of a stalker, like threats or damaging your property. It’s all an attempt to show dominance over you.

However, it’s important to remember that you have a right to feel safe, and it’s never your fault. It’s the stalker’s problem, and nobody else’s.

If you’re suffering from stalking, your only responsibility is to learn how to get rid of a stalker and live the fear-free life you deserve.

Types of stalkers

So, what kind of stalkers are there, and what kinds of people usually show the signs of a stalker? Statistically, certain types of people are more likely to stalk or be victims of stalking.

According to a US survey, 78% of stalking victims are women, and 87% of stalkers are men. That means most stalkers are male, and most victims are female. Even if a man is a victim of stalking, his stalker is more likely to be male.

[Read: How to tell someone to leave you alone – and what to do if they won’t listen]

However, if you want to know how to get rid of a stalker, you don’t just need to know who usually stalks. You also need to know what kinds of stalkers are out there, and how to recognize the signs of a stalker in each of them. Here are the top four types of stalkers.

1. Public figure stalker

Public figure stalkers are individuals who pursue or harass a public figure, such as a celebrity, politician, or athlete.

You don’t even have to be especially famous for a stalker to target you – just somebody with a large presence in the public domain. These stalkers stalk for a variety of reasons, such as a desire for attention, or a romantic obsession *erotomania*. [Read: Obsessive love disorder – What causes it, 21 signs and ways to overcome it]

Because so much of famous people’s lives are out there in the open, public figure stalkers often have a deep knowledge of their victims’ lives and habits. [Read: Crazy girlfriend – what makes one, 53 psycho signs and ways to deal with her]

Also, they may be willing to go to great lengths to get their victim’s attention. They imagine they already know their victim, so they don’t think they’re harassing them when they are. In some cases, public figure stalkers have even resorted to violence.

2. Private stranger stalker

A private stranger stalker is a person who stalks someone they do not know personally. This type of stalking can be just as dangerous as stalking by an acquaintance or ex-partner, but it can be more difficult to identify and stop.

Your stalker could just be someone you crossed paths with once – like at the grocery store, or out on a run.

It can be difficult to identify who a private stranger stalker is and why they’re showing the signs of a stalker because you don’t know them.

They may start by following their victim, watching them from a distance, or sending them unwanted gifts or letters. But as the stalking progresses, the stalker may become more aggressive, making threats or even attempting to harm their victim.

3. Acquaintance stalker

The acquaintance stalker follows somebody they have a slight connection with, but don’t know well. This could be a coworker, classmate, family member, neighbor, or someone else in their life.

Acquaintance stalkers are one of the groups with the lowest risk of violence; only 50% of acquaintance stalkers will become violent or dangerous, according to statistics.

However, just because they have a lower risk of violence, doesn’t mean they can’t still ruin your life.

Acquaintance stalking can be just as harmful as stalking by a stranger or ex-partner, and it can be even more difficult to escape from. Because your lives are already intertwined, it’s hard to separate yourself from them.

[Read: The unnervingly annoying ways creepy guys come on too strong]

4. Intimate stalker

Intimate stalkers are the most common type of stalker, but also the most dangerous. They’re somebody you know personally and intimately, like a friend, ex-partner, or ex-spouse.

The risk of violence from an intimate stalker is about 74 percent, which is the highest out of any kind of stalker. If you think you might have an intimate stalker, educate yourself on the signs of a stalker and contact the police.

The violence intimate stalkers act out can be anything from shoving you, shouting, to even murder. Many domestic violence homicides have a stalking component, and some domestic abusers will use stalking to control a partner who’s left the relationship.

How to tell the real signs of a stalker

Now you know why people usually stalk, and what stalking is. But what are the real signs of a stalker?

Of course, if you notice the signs of a stalker, it’s super important that you recognize the seriousness of your situation. If you think stalking is no big deal and nothing to worry about, think again.

Stalking is a serious crime and is something to nip in the bud as soon as you recognize the behavior. So, let’s break down the most common signs of a stalker, so you know how to keep yourself safe. You can’t learn how to get rid of a stalker if you don’t know the signs first!

1. They’re extremely intense

This is a huge difference between a regular person and someone who’s a stalker: they’re intense. When they look at you, they look at you. As if they’re going hunting and they found their target.

You may feel an anxious sensation in your body and feel compelled to look away.

Or, you might become flattered by the attention and feel as if you’re being swept up in an exciting affair. However, they’ll always try hard to convince you that you two are meant to be. Even if it seems like they’re coming on way too strong. [Read: The super surprising scenarios when it’s okay to ghost a friend]

2. They pop by when they know you’re busy

Dropping by to surprise someone happens all the time. We all do it with our friends sometimes when we’re feeling spontaneous. However, most of us don’t do it when we know they’re already busy.

Stalkers tend to make these “surprise visits,” usually when they know you already have plans. You’ll probably be slightly confused, even defensive. If that’s the automatic feeling you get, listen to it.

They may show up at your house, work, or even your night out—wherever they think you’re going to be. That’s one of the clearest signs of a stalker. [Read: How to get rid of a toxic friend]

3. They already know about you

They probably already have enough information about you to figure out who you are – even though you haven’t properly met. They’ve spent time looking you up on social media, casually asked people about you, and followed all of your accounts.

What you need to do – if you end up speaking to them – is see if they know details about you that they shouldn’t. That includes any details that you haven’t told them.

4. They invade your personal space and break boundaries

We all have boundaries. These can be anything from not letting people stand too close to you, to not sharing snacks, to not inviting others into your home.

Now when it comes to a stalker, they’ll completely disregard these boundaries. They’ll get up in your grill, and invade your personal space – regardless if they communicate with you personally or not.

If you’ve confronted this person in the past and asked them to leave you alone, that’s one of the warning signs of a stalker. If they refuse, they’re not understanding or respecting your boundaries. And you probably need to look into how to get rid of a stalker. [Read: The crucial steps and boundaries that make you feel more in control]

5. They manipulate scenarios and make coincidences

Stalkers try to manipulate situations so that they can be around you. Maybe they’ll try to get a job close to yours, eat lunch at your usual spot, or take the same bus as you.

In a natural setting, these situations most likely never occur. But they make those coincidences happen.

If it seems like somebody’s always there, it might just be a chance, but don’t just dismiss it. It could be your stalker creating and manipulating scenarios to be near you more often.

6. They try to intimidate you

Each stalker has their own goal, they’re not stalking you because they have nothing else to do. There’s a reason why they need to follow you, and they try to intimidate you in order for you to fulfill their goal.

Don’t take stalking to be innocent, they cannot just follow you around for years and years, so they have a goal that needs to be achieved. They may try to harm you or intimidate you, most likely when you’re alone. [Read: Should you settle for less when you can have much more?]

7. Understand that they’re obsessed

Stalking is obsessive behavior. This person is obsessed with you and in no way is this healthy. Sometimes we try to justify someone else’s behavior to lighten the situation, but with stalking, you can’t.

This person sees you as an object. Something they need to obtain. They try their hardest to get what they want, you need to know that.

8. They analyze every single thing you say

They strip down every word that comes out of your mouth, looking to find what you really wanted to say. The true meaning behind your words. If you communicate with this person, you notice they overreact or hold on to things that you say.

A stalker will make you defend every word you say. They’ll constantly have you explaining your reasoning, and make you feel like you’re the one in the wrong.

If they feel you’re in the wrong, they may try to harm you. This is one of the most dangerous and volatile signs of a stalker.

[Read: The unhealthy effects of falling madly in obsessive love]

9. It’s always question-and-answer time

They want to know where you’re going, when you’re going, who you’re going with… When you first meet them, this may look like harmless curiosity.

However, as time passes, this form of interrogation begins to make you uncomfortable, which is the appropriate feeling to have. They may “check up” on you, just to see if you tell the truth. If this happens, they’re stalking you.

10. They damage your property

This one is creepy. However, it’s not uncommon among stalkers. If you do not give them the attention they want, they’ll find a way to get it.

They may start damaging your property, your car, or the exterior of your home. As time passes, they become more daring, possibly even breaking into your home.

If you find any damage to your personal property, contact the authorities because this is only the beginning. This is one of the most dangerous signs of a stalker and a sign you need to find out how to get rid of a stalker immediately.

11. They’re usually not strangers

Most of the movies out there about stalkers show some random crazy girl or guy the lead just met at a bar. However, this is usually not the case.

For most people being stalked, it’s done by someone they already know. It could be a friend, ex-friend, or ex-lover—these are the most likely situations.

Plus, if someone stalks you under an unknown identity, look at your social circle. It could be somebody trying to hide who they really are. [Read: Why being addicted to someone is not the same as being in love]

12. Contacting you constantly

One of the most well-known signs of a stalker is contacting you constantly, also known as verbal harassment.

This could just mean sending you thousands of text messages, or calling you if they have your number. Nowadays, it could also involve flooding your DMs on social media.

However, this can develop into making rude or offensive comments, so stay alert. Some stalkers even send threats or upsetting material. So, stay alert. Even if they’re harmless now, the signs of a stalker can always escalate.

13. Unwanted or inappropriate gifts

This is part of the harassment and intimidation stalkers like to inflict on their victims. As well as unwanted texts, letters, or online communications, some stalkers will also send unwanted gifts.

Seeing as they know so much about their victim, it might be things you actually want or like – not that this makes it any less creepy.

However, one of the most alarming signs of a stalker is when the gifts are unwanted, or even inappropriate. If your stalker sends you something that makes you uncomfortable or upset, then that’s a crime. Contact the authorities immediately, and follow our steps on how to get rid of a stalker. [Read: How to get someone to stop texting you – a step-by-step guide]

Stalkers aren’t mysterious and sexy even if they’re portrayed that way!

In Hollywood movies, stalking often looks sexy or glamorous. The stalker is often portrayed as a handsome, mysterious man who is deeply in love with the object of his affection.

He may shower her with gifts and attention, and she may even find herself drawn to him despite her better judgment. However, that’s far from the truth.

If a guy really loves you, he won’t show the signs of a stalker. Stalking only makes you unhappy, and somebody who loves you wants to see you happy.

So why would someone who loves you become a stalker? In the end, it’s a sign of control and obsession – or even aggression. It’s an attempt to intimidate you and make you feel small.

[Read: The tips to avoid online creeps and their creeptastic ways]

The type of person the stalker is also affects how people see the crime. If the guy’s hot, movies and books show stalking as just a sign of him being protective and manly.

But in reality, even if he looks like a supermodel, creepy is creepy. Stalkerish behavior is not OK, no matter how innocent it may seem – and how romantic the media tries to make it look.

Even if something seems cute, be aware of the implications. Who hasn’t heard the words “I’ll never let anybody else have you,” or “I’ll never let you go,” and just found them sweet or romantic?

In reality, somebody who won’t let you go is someone you should avoid. They’re acting like a stalker, which isn’t cute at all!

How to get rid of a stalker

Always keep your eyes open. If you already have someone stalking you or becoming an issue, you must handle it as soon as possible. Stalking is not sexy, it’s creepy.

So, here’s how to get rid of a stalker. If you can learn how to get rid of a stalker properly and keep that knowledge in mind, you can live the free life you deserve. [Read: The perfect hints to ignore a creepy guy and get him to just leave you alone!]

1. Are you in immediate danger?

If even for one second you feel that your life is threatened, call the police. Use your pepper spray, run away, and call the police. This is your life, so you must protect yourself at all costs. So, when in doubt, act fast.

Honestly, you don’t want to take the chance that they “might” do something. If you think you’re in danger, you need to know how to get rid of a stalker fast.

2. Tell your friends, family, and employer

Everyone around you needs to know about this stalker. If you have a photo of them, send it to your friends, family, and employer. You need to make sure that everyone around you knows who this person is.

If you want to know how to get rid of a stalker, you need to understand that stalkers are manipulative, so they may try to go through people close to you in order to get to you. Make sure this doesn’t happen.

3. Try to not travel alone for a while

You may feel caged in and your freedom of movement restricted. However, in this case, it needs to be done.

Make sure, whenever possible, you have someone who walks with you when you’re out during the day or evening. This doesn’t have to be a forever thing, but it does have to happen until this situation is cleared up. [Read: The most common post-breakup mistakes you should never do]

4. Record everything

This is the most important thing you can do for yourself when you’re trying to figure out how to get rid of a stalker.

Compile as much evidence as possible showing that this person stalks you. The more evidence you have, the better chance they can be charged with harassment. Build up a case for yourself. Keep all texts, photos, and call logs.

If they leave gifts at your house, do not accept them. However, make a note of it. Try and collect evidence of as many of the signs of a stalker as you can. That way, nobody can deny that what you’re going through is true.

5. Switch up your daily routine

Trust us, they know what you do every day. They know where you go to the gym and who you meet up for coffee with. You need to switch up your daily routine.

Do not go to your regular spots, at all. Switch gyms, eat lunch somewhere else, and if you go out on a Saturday night, try a new bar. That way they can’t find you.

6. Watch out for social media

Is your profile on Facebook public? Change it. Make sure you make all your social media profiles as limited as possible. If you share mutual friends with the stalker, make sure you limit their visibility on your social media.

Block the stalker from everything and do not accept any friendships from unknown accounts. [Read: The good, the bad, and the ugly of social media]

7. Try to ignore them

They’re going to try to get your attention constantly. They’ll even try different methods to see which one is more effective, but you need to ignore them.

The only time you should speak to them is if they physically approach you. And if they do, tell them you’ll contact the police if they continue.

8. Is your home properly protected?

We don’t want to scare you, but is your home properly protected? If this stalker is coming near your personal space, install cameras and lights, and make sure your doors and windows are properly secure.

Or if you have a dog, even better. Also, if you live in an apartment, make sure your building manager is aware of the stalker.

9. If they talk to you, make your demands known

If they come up to you and start speaking to you, you need to be firm. Do not let them intimidate or manipulate you, because they’ll try.

When they approach you, be firm and tell them that you do not want them to contact you and if they do, you will contact the police. [Read: How to stop obsessing over an ex and free your mind for something new]

10. Live somewhere else for a while

There’s nothing wrong with living with your parents, or at a friend’s house for a while. Just make sure the stalker doesn’t know – or can’t find out – where they live.

This isn’t permanent. But if you feel like you’re in danger, this will help you sleep at night. If you change your contact information at the same time, it makes for a perfect transition.

11. Always have a backup plan

Whether it’s for work or home, have an escape plan. If you’re walking in a parking garage alone, you need to think of ways to get out asap.

If they break into your house and you’re upstairs, how are you going to get out? We’re not trying to freak you out, but we’re being honest with you. You really don’t know what they’re capable of. [Read: How to tell a girl you like her and not come across as creepy]

12. Take legal measures

Do not be afraid to request a restraining order or call the police. Though a restraining order does not put them behind bars *for now*, it does show you have legal support. If this person goes against the law, they’ll have legal consequences to adhere to.

Also, it sends a strong message to your stalker that you don’t appreciate their behavior. This is especially effective with stalkers who think they have a relationship with you.

13. Make sure you carry pepper spray with you

Sometimes, you’ll have to walk home or to your car alone. You won’t always be able to have someone by your side.

In these cases, you need to make sure you’re properly protected. Pepper spray is very reliable, so make sure you have some on you at all times, such as in a purse or pocket.

When you’re alone, just carry the spritzer in your hand. If you don’t have pepper spray, you can carry your keys between your fingers like claws. The point is, you need to make sure you can distract them long enough to run away. [Read: The science behind craving them more when you feel ignored]

14. Change your contact information

This is an annoying thing to do, but if they continue to call you, change your number. When you do this, make sure they also don’t know where you live.

If they know where you live, they’ll come to you. Think about it: if you change your number, they can no longer contact you. Obviously, they won’t be happy. But you need to do this.

However, when you do this, stay away from places where they know you usually go. You don’t want to put yourself near the stalker when you’ve just done something they won’t like.

15. Send a clear message

When you’re speaking to somebody you’re scared of, it can be hard to be direct. But make sure you send a clear message that you want your stalker gone. Completely and totally.

Do not beat around the bush or try to sugarcoat it. Be clear and concise when you speak to them.

Do not say things like “Maybe we can be friends again someday” or “I’m just going through a tough time right now.” This will only give the person false hope, and make it possible for them to continue their delusion that you actually like them. [Read: Why your stalker’s addiction to you is not love]

16. Be prepared for an attack

You know by now that stalkers can become violent and dangerous. So always be prepared for an attack. You can prepare yourself by taking self-defense classes, learning how to use pepper spray or a taser, or carrying a personal alarm with you at all times. You should also make sure that you have an emergency plan in place in case you are attacked.

A big part of learning how to get rid of a stalker is preparing yourself mentally. Right now, you’re in danger. There are no two ways about it. So be prepared for that danger, and you’ll be able to get through this safely.

17. Establish a code word

You might find yourself in a situation where your stalker shows up unexpectedly and you feel threatened. Establishing a code word could be a lifesaver in that situation.

This is a secret word or phrase that you wouldn’t usually say, which lets others know that you’re in danger. Then, if your stalker approaches you, you can raise the alarm without letting that creep know what you’re doing.

Make sure you share your code word with your friends and family. If you do share a code word, it might also be a good idea to call a trusted person as soon as your stalker approaches. That way, they can hear what you’re saying through the phone. [Read: How to confront and get your girlfriend’s ex-boyfriend to back off from your girl]

18. Ensure that your family is safe

This is one of the things people often forget when learning how to get rid of a stalker. Even if you’ve made yourself safe, you can’t afford to leave your family or loved ones exposed.

It’s very possible that your stalker might try to take revenge or transfer his interest onto one of them. So, always ensure that your family is safe.

19. Don’t feel sorry for them

This calls back to what we said earlier, about how the signs of stalking aren’t sexy. Movies, books, and TV shows constantly show stalkers as misunderstood individuals, who just love more intensely than other people or suffer from mental illness. Although mental illness is a serious issue, it doesn’t mean you need to feel sorry for your stalker.

They’re a bad person for stalking you – and there’s no excuse for what they’ve done. They are a predator who is choosing to harass and intimidate you.

20. Take a self-defense course

Try out some martial arts or self-defense lessons, these can teach you how to defend yourself against a variety of attacks, and they can also help you to develop your self-esteem.

You won’t feel as powerless at the hands of your stalker if you know you can kick their ass! [Read: 25 signs your ex wants you back and just can’t stop thinking of you]

21. Try hanging out in public places

If you’re in a public place, it’s harder for your stalker to be violent towards you. They might feel less brave, and they will face an angry mob if they try to do anything to you.

So, if you want to know how to get rid of a stalker, start by surrounding yourself with other people. Spend as much time as possible in public places where you feel safe, and know how to get to exits or authorities.

22. Go public with your issue

Going public with your issue can help to raise awareness about stalking, and it can also help to put pressure on your stalker to stop their behavior.

But if you decide to go public, you should be prepared for the possibility of negative reactions from some people – including your stalker. Make sure you’ve followed all our previous steps on how to get rid of a stalker first.

However, it is important to remember that you are not alone and that there are people who can help you. Millions of people have suffered stalking, and millions more have been helped to freedom. You’re just as capable, worthy, and strong as any of them.

[Read: The dos and don’ts of adding your new date on Facebook]

On the flipside – Am I acting like a stalker?

Sometimes, people go overboard with their affections without knowing it. They get a little too involved in a new relationship and take on some stalkerish behavior. These more subtle signs of a stalker may not be enough to call the police over, but they still feel creepy and weird.

Of course, this doesn’t bode well for a future relationship. You might even find that you’ve done some of these behaviors in the past when you were just a little too stuck on somebody.

It’s easy to start acting like a stalker without realizing it. You never know, somebody might be Googling ‘how to get rid of a stalker’ with you in mind!

So, here are the most common subtle signs of stalkerish behavior that people tend to overlook. If you find yourself doing these behaviors, be careful. You’re probably pushing your lover away instead of bringing them closer.

1. Commenting on or liking all of their posts

While it’s fine to friend the object of your affection on Facebook, even if you don’t know him that well, it’s not cool to like or comment on every single status, photo, or link that pops up on their page.

Of course, everybody likes to check out a new partner on socials. But don’t invade their privacy. You have better things to do besides adding them to your list of close friends and monitoring their feeds all day long. [Read: 33 ways to forget a guy when you miss him, but he doesn’t care]

2. Showing up at places they’re visiting

Thanks to social networks like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, it’s easy to post where you are or where you’re headed. However, it’s not fair if every time your date heads to a public place, you suddenly arrive there five minutes later.

Feel free to pop in at their hangouts once in a while, but refrain from smothering them with your presence. [Read: 20 reasons why a guy you like could be ignoring you]

3. Frequently passing by their workplace, school, or home

You may need to walk or drive by one of these places to get where you’re going – but don’t do so more often than is necessary. 

If you don’t happen to see them, you’ll have wasted your time and accomplished nothing. On the other hand, if they are there and notice you circling the block for the sixth time that day, you’re just going to scare them.

4. Texting them constantly

Perhaps you’ve been lucky enough to receive a cell number from your love interest. If so, don’t make them regret giving it to you.

Remember, daily “Good morning” and “Sweet dreams” texts are normally sent by couples who are already dating, not two people who are just getting to know each other. [Read: The effective steps to stop obsessing over a guy you’re interested in]

5. Becoming a *new* patron at their workplace.

Becoming a regular customer can also be a stalkerish strategy. If the person you’ve got your eye on tells you that they work at a store, mans the front desk of a hotel, or is a teller at a local bank, you may think this is great since their job will give you super-easy access to them.

Not so fast – if you’ve never entered your date’s place of business before, don’t think it’s an excuse to harass them. They’re probably searching ‘how to get rid of a stalker’ on their work laptop as you speak!

6. Getting close to their friends and family

Even if your intentions are innocent, don’t become friends with their friends and family. Sure, their sister might be really cool, but you’ve got to keep things casual until they accept you into his inner circle themselves. Otherwise, you’re invading their personal bubble – and that’s never okay.

7. Pumping people for information about them

Don’t ask mutual friends what they’re doing on the weekend, where their new job is, or what their holiday plans are this year.

If you’re not close enough to them to ask him these things yourself, then you don’t really need to know, do you? [Read: How to know if a guy likes you when he doesn’t even talk to you]

8. Making their interests your own

Most people will get weirded out if they meet you at a party on Friday night, and then you unexpectedly show up at their book club, their wine-tasting group, and their gym all within the next week.

You should never pretend to like something that you don’t care for, or take up new hobbies solely because they’re theirs.

9. Talking about them constantly to mutual friends

It’s understandable that when you’re crushing on someone new, all you’ll want to talk about is them. But remember to keep this chatter to a minimum.

Others aren’t interested in every tiny thing your crush has said, and it’s not fair to share things they told you in confidence. Plus, it’s not healthy for you. Think about something else! [Read: Why isn’t he asking you out? – 17 sure reasons why]

10. Giving them unnecessary gifts

Unless this person is your current partner, you shouldn’t be buying them gifts.

Even if you think that a scarf will really complement their eyes, or those snazzy folders are just the thing that will help them keep their work documents organized – stop. You have no way of knowing if your gifts are unwanted or inappropriate.

11. Asking them to hang out after a few rejections

When we’re really interested in someone, sometimes our brains have trouble processing the word “no.”

So even if they say they’re busy, you may keep on asking and asking, ignoring the negative response each time. That’s one of the signs of a stalker. Instead, respect their “no” and step off.

Give them space, and try again later – meaning in another week or two, not the next day! [Read: 20 reasons why a guy may never ever like you back]

If you think someone’s stalking you, please contact your local authorities. In addition, make sure your family and friends are aware, so they can make sure you’re safe and supported.

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Preeti Tewari Serai
Preeti Serai
Preeti, the founder of LovePanky, is an eternal optimist and believer in the beauty of love and life. With an exhaustive experience in love, relationships, and ...