"Quite simple"

When calls and text messages make life hell

Stalking now usually takes place via text message or social media.

(Bild: Josep LAGO / AFP)

Persistent stalking is the legal term for what most people know as stalking. This can include countless phone calls, unwanted love letters, but also personal contact and violence. With a penalty of up to three years, this is no trivial offense - explains lawyer Sascha Flatz to the "Krone" newspaper.

"This includes all actions that interfere with a person's way of life," says lawyer Sascha Flatz, explaining the concept of persistent persecution, better known as stalking. Whether this involves virtual contact or even personal contact is irrelevant. And the time period is also insignificant.