are you a stalker

The rise of social networking has made the temptation to keep tabs on people even more irresistible.

Foursquare.com, a new social media application, is cellphone-based and allows users to check into locations. "For those who aren't aware that they have a stalker, and therefore haven't changed their privacy settings, their location is broadcast to Facebook and Twitter for all to see," warns online communications specialist Rox Bradnick.

And "Places", a Facebook app, not only lets you check into locations, but allows friends who you're with to tag you too – so check your settings carefully unless you want the person you're avoiding to catch you off-guard.

"Info is easily available in today's digital age," says Bradnick. "If you consider how easy it is to track down old friends from school, you can see how simple it is for someone with a slightly obsessive interest to start following every last detail relating to their target," says Bradnick.

So what should you look out for, in yourself and others? Dr Rosa Bredekamp, a counselling psychologist with a special interest in forensics, says: "Stalkers tend to have weak social skills, are shy and often uncertain of themselves. And they don't see anything wrong with their behaviour." This is clear in Pumi's case. "Even though he lies to me, it's hard to leave him as we have a baby together," she says. "It's easier to just see what he's up to." And Lauren? "I am the obsessive type, but I tell myself it comes with the territory," she says.