How to report harassing emails
If you're receiving harassing emails, there are several steps you can take to report them and take action to stop the harassment. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Save the emails: Before reporting the emails, save them to your computer or cloud storage service. This will help you keep a record of the harassment and provide evidence if needed.
- Block the sender: If you're using a web-based email service like Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook, you can block the sender's email address. This will prevent them from sending you any more emails.
- Report the emails to the email provider: Most email providers have a reporting mechanism for harassing or abusive emails. Here's how to report them to some popular email providers:
- Gmail: Click on the three vertical dots next to the email, select "Report spam" or "Report abuse," and follow the prompts.
- Yahoo: Click on the gear icon, select "More settings," and then click on "Report spam" or "Report abuse."
- Outlook: Click on the three dots next to the email, select "Report spam," and follow the prompts.
- Report the emails to the authorities: If the emails are threatening or harassing, you can report them to the authorities. Here are some options:
- Local police department: File a report with your local police department, providing them with the emails and any other relevant information.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC is responsible for enforcing laws related to online harassment. You can file a complaint with the FTC online.
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): If the emails are threatening or harassing, you can report them to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
- Contact the sender's internet service provider (ISP): If you know the sender's ISP, you can contact them and report the harassment. Many ISPs have policies against sending harassing emails and may take action against the sender.
- Consider seeking legal action: If the harassment is severe and persistent, you may want to consider seeking legal action. You can consult with a lawyer to discuss your options.
Additional tips:
- Keep a record of all correspondence: Keep a record of all emails, including the dates and times they were sent, as well as any responses you sent to the sender.
- Don't respond to the sender: Avoid responding to the sender, as this can escalate the situation. Instead, report the emails and block the sender's email address.
- Change your email address: If the harassment is severe and persistent, you may want to consider changing your email address to avoid further contact with the sender.
Remember, you don't have to tolerate harassing emails. Report them and take action to stop the harassment.