From Stalker to Follower: Welcome to My Life

Jana Schmidt
Dec 4, 2024
3 min read

Do you remember life before social media? Back then, if someone “followed” you, it wasn’t a good thing—it was concerning. A “follower” wanted to know everything about you: where you went, who you were with, and what you were doing.

In those days, we called them stalkers.

Today, the word “follower” has transformed into a badge of honor. Today, we openly share our lives on social media, from morning coffee runs to weekend getaways. Strangers are no longer invading our privacy—we invite them in.

But here’s the big question: when did the line between followers and stalkers get so blurry?

How “Followers” Became a Status Symbol

In the age of Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, the more followers you have, the more successful you seem. Followers are currency, a measure of influence and popularity.

Yet, by chasing larger follower counts, we’re also granting more strangers access to our personal lives. Think about it:

Sharing your location in real-time? Strangers know where you are.
Posting family moments? They know who’s important to you.
Sharing daily routines? It’s easier for someone to predict your patterns.

Imagine this scenario: In 2005, someone knocks on your door and says, “Hey, I saw you had pancakes for breakfast today. Love that outfit you wore to the mall yesterday!” You’d be alarmed, right?

Yet today, this is what we willingly share with the world through our posts.

When Does a Follower Become a Stalker?

The shift from “stalker” to “follower” has made oversharing feel normal. But the reality is, not every follower has good intentions.

This is where social media’s convenience and accessibility can become dangerous. A virtual follower could easily transition into a physical one, especially when you unknowingly provide them with the information they need.

🔍 Key Risks of Oversharing on Social Media:

Real-time location sharing makes it easier for people to find you.
Personal details can reveal more about you than you realize.
Patterns and habits give strangers a roadmap to your life.

#OrangeTheWorld: Protecting Women in the Digital Age

This isn’t just about personal safety—it’s a global issue. The #OrangeTheWorld initiative, which raises awareness about violence against women and girls, reminds us how social media can increase vulnerability.

While social platforms offer empowerment and connection, they also expose women to risks like stalking and harassment. Being mindful of what we post is a step toward protecting ourselves, but systemic change is needed to ensure safety for everyone, both online and offline.

Let’s use the power of social media to raise awareness, not invite danger.

5 Tips to Stay Safe on Social Media

Want to enjoy social media without compromising your privacy? Follow these steps:

Limit real-time sharing.
→ Post about events after they happen, not while you’re still there.
Review your followers.
→ Remove anyone you don’t know or trust.
Check privacy settings.
→ Make sure your posts are visible only to those you approve.
Avoid sharing routines.
→ Details like your morning run route or weekly schedule can make you predictable.
Think before you post.
→ If you wouldn’t want a stranger to know it, don’t share it online.

The Fine Line Between Sharing and Oversharing

The shift from “stalker” to “follower” reflects how much our behavior has changed in the social media era. But not every follower is a friend, and not every like comes from a place of goodwill.

Social media is a powerful tool for connection and self-expression. But it’s also a place where caution is necessary. By setting boundaries and being mindful of what we share, we can protect ourselves while still enjoying the benefits of being online.

Are We Too Comfortable?

The line between a follower and a stalker might be thinner than we think. Let’s use social media wisely, ensuring that we’re connecting safely and intentionally.

What do you think? Has social media made us too comfortable with oversharing? Share your thoughts below.