Responding to Technology-Enabled Abuse

The Office of Equity Assurance and the legal system work independently, but in coordination. You may file a report with the University, law enforcement, with both, or with neither. The standards for determining a violation of criminal law are different than the standard in WVU’s grievance procedures. Neither the results of a criminal investigation nor the decision of law enforcement on whether to investigate determines whether a violation of the University’s policy has occurred.

If you have identified that you or someone you know is a victim of technology-enabled abuse, take the following precautions:

Document the abuse

Save all communications with the stalker for evidence—do NOT edit the communications in any way. If the harasser posts comments online, keep copies and considering unpublishing the content rather than deleting it. Consider using this incident and behavior log form from the Stalking Prevention, Awareness, & Resource Center (SPARC).

Save texts, phone calls, and voicemails, take screenshots, or create a log with details. Make sure to include the date, time, location, suspected technology involved, a brief description, and note any witnesses. Save your evidence in multiple places, even physical locations.

Plan for your personal safety

Throwing away devices, closing accounts and otherwise ending an abuser’s access could escalate their behavior. Before you throw away a camera or GPS tracker, think about how the abuser might respond and be sure you have a plan for your physical well-being, including an ally and a safe place to go.

• If the person is publishing harmful information about you in other online spaces, complain to the moderator or online system administrators. Keep a record of all your communications with that person.

• Block or filter communications from the harasser, including calls, texts, and online messages. Social media platforms all offer advice on how to block communications. You can also block senders from your MIX Gmail account.

• Tell your family, friends, and employer that someone is stalking you online.

• Keep a record of all communications with law enforcement.

Always trust your instincts. If you suspect that someone knows too much about you or your activities, it is possible that you are being monitored.

Get assistance

• Visit the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion’s Resources and Reporting Options page to review your options.

• Students, faculty, and staff can report cyberstalking to the University by calling the Equity Assurance and Title IX office at 304-293-5600 or by filing a report online. Abuse or harassment can also be reported to the University Police Department at 304-293-3136 or to other law enforcement agencies with jurisdiction over the crime.

• Keep in mind that all faculty and staff at West Virginia University are considered responsible employees (except counselors and pastoral staff, who are exempt from reporting and maintain confidential status). This means that when a Title IX related or other forms of discrimination and harassment incident are disclosed to them, they must report it to the University to ensure the safety of the individual and the campus community. However, all WVU employees who are aware of Prohibited Conduct are encouraged to report such conduct and File A Complaint.

• When an individual has experienced harm or is a party to an investigation, the Office of Equity Assurance can also assist students with a number of supportive measures, including but not limited to:

  • Access to counseling services

  • On-Campus No Contact Directive

  • Rescheduling exams/ assignments

  • Providing alternate course options

  • Changing class/work schedules

  • Changing work/job assignments

  • Temporary suspension to campus facilities/housing

  • Limit access to certain privileges and events

  • Escort to ensure safety

  • Medical care

  • Tutoring

  • University-imposed leave or suspension

  • Alternative housing options