In today’s digital era, cyber-stalking has become a silent predator, creeping into the lives of individuals without warning. The chilling new true crime podcast Stalked sheds light on one such harrowing case, chronicling the nightmare of a young woman who was relentlessly pursued online by an anonymous cyber-stalker.
Produced by BBC Studios for BBC Sounds and BBC Radio 5 Live, this ten-part series promises an investigative journey filled with suspense, resilience, and shocking revelations. With a real-time unfolding narrative, Stalked takes listeners through a digital labyrinth of deception and fear, exposing the perils of technology-enabled stalking.
The Story Behind ‘Stalked’: One Woman’s Fight for Justice
Hannah Mossman Moore was a vibrant, confident young woman until she became the target of a sinister cyber-stalking campaign. What started as minor online nuisances quickly escalated into a terrifying experience that left her feeling isolated, vulnerable, and powerless.
Her stalker’s tactics were alarmingly sophisticated. From impersonating her online to tracking her physical movements, the unknown assailant meticulously infiltrated every aspect of her digital life. What made the situation even more unsettling was that Hannah initially suspected a man she had met at London Fashion Week years ago. However, when confronted, he claimed that his own accounts had been hacked—raising even more questions and deepening the mystery.
A Failing System: The Police’s Inability to Recognize Stalking
Despite reporting the disturbing incidents to the police, Hannah’s complaints were largely dismissed. Authorities failed to acknowledge the severity of her situation, leaving her feeling helpless in the face of relentless harassment.
Determined to uncover the truth, she turned to someone she trusted—investigative journalist Carole Cadwalladr, who also happened to be her ex-stepmother and had known her since childhood. Together, they embarked on a three-year-long quest to track down the perpetrator and understand the wider implications of cyber-stalking.
Meet the Investigative Team Behind the Podcast
To amplify their efforts, Hannah and Carole joined forces with award-winning BBC producers Georgia Catt and Rob Byrne, the masterminds behind The Missing Cryptoqueen. With their expertise in investigative journalism and podcast storytelling, they crafted Stalked into an immersive, edge-of-the-seat experience for listeners worldwide.
Their investigation unraveled a shocking web of digital deceit that extended far beyond Hannah’s case, highlighting a global epidemic where cyber-stalkers exploit technology to control, manipulate, and terrorize their victims.
Technology: A Double-Edged Sword
One of the most chilling aspects of Stalked is its deep exploration of how modern technology is weaponized against individuals. Social media platforms, GPS tracking, and digital impersonation have made it disturbingly easy for stalkers to exert control over their targets while remaining hidden in the shadows.
The podcast highlights:
- The psychological toll of cyber-stalking on victims.
- The ease with which predators manipulate online identities.
- The loopholes in law enforcement responses to digital crimes.
- The urgent need for stricter cybercrime regulations.
An Emotional Rollercoaster: The Personal Toll of Cyber-Stalking
Each episode of Stalked peels back the layers of Hannah’s distressing ordeal, offering a deeply personal look at the impact of living in constant fear. Her words reflect the agony of countless victims who endure similar experiences:
“Being harassed and pursued was terrifying and exhausting. Working with a team of investigative journalists to finally get answers has been empowering and liberating. I’ve been able to piece my life back together and rebuild my mental health.”
Hannah’s mission extends beyond her personal fight for justice. She hopes Stalked will serve as a beacon of awareness and support for other victims, urging authorities to take online stalking more seriously.
Carole Cadwalladr’s Perspective: A Journalist’s Take on the Case
Carole Cadwalladr, a Pulitzer-nominated investigative journalist, played a crucial role in unraveling the mystery. She shares her thoughts on the importance of this case:
“What happened to Hannah was devastating. It left her isolated and alone with nowhere to turn. But this is not just about one woman; technology is being used to prey on millions. Those most at risk are young women, and what we’ve learned is that this is an epidemic. It’s time for action.”
Her words underscore a pressing issue: cyber-stalkers operate with alarming impunity, and law enforcement needs to evolve to combat this growing digital menace.
Why ‘Stalked’ is a Must-Listen Podcast
1. Real-Time Investigation
Unlike traditional crime documentaries, Stalked unfolds in real time, making listeners feel like they are part of the investigation.
2. A True Crime Story That Resonates
Cyber-stalking is an ever-growing threat, and Hannah’s story echoes the fears and realities of countless individuals worldwide.
3. A Stellar Investigative Team
With an award-winning production team and a seasoned journalist at the helm, Stalked delivers in-depth reporting and gripping storytelling.
4. An Urgent Call for Change
The podcast is not just an exposé; it is a rallying cry for stricter digital laws, better policing, and increased awareness about cyber-stalking.
When and Where to Listen?
The ten-part series Stalked is available for streaming on BBC Sounds starting Tuesday, February 4. With weekly episodes, the podcast promises a rollercoaster of emotions, discoveries, and shocking twists that will keep listeners hooked.
Final Thoughts: The Broader Impact of ‘Stalked’
More than just a podcast, Stalked is a wake-up call to society. In an age where digital footprints are nearly impossible to erase, online stalking is a silent but deadly epidemic. The series aims to bring justice not only to Hannah but to countless other victims who suffer in silence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing cyber-stalking, seek support and report it immediately. Change begins with awareness, and Stalked is here to shine a much-needed light on this pressing issue.