How to Stay Safe When You Think You're Being Followed
That sudden chill. The creeping doubt. Many people have experienced that uneasy tingle when something just feels off—a car idling too long beside you on the sidewalk, or spotting the same vehicle in your rearview mirror turn after turn. Whether you're out jogging, walking home from work, or driving alone, that gut feeling that someone may be following you shouldn't be ignored.
Here's a detailed, practical guide on what to do if you suspect someone may be tailing you—either on foot or by vehicle.
1. Stay Alert and Trust Your Instincts
The first—and most critical—step is to stay alert. Awareness is your first line of defense. Avoid distractions:
-
Remove earbuds so you can hear footsteps, vehicles, or other environmental sounds.
-
Keep your head up and eyes scanning your surroundings.
-
Trust your gut—intuition is often your brain picking up subtle signs you haven't consciously noticed.
"Looking up doesn't only let you see what's around you," says Brittany W. from Ackerman. "It also makes you appear more confident and less vulnerable, making you a harder target for a would-be stalker or thief."
2. Move to a Public, Well-Lit Area
If you feel threatened:
-
Head toward populated areas—stores, cafes, gas stations, or any place with people.
-
Avoid alleyways, isolated parks, or shortcuts that cut through deserted areas.
-
Change your route often if you're on foot. Stick to main streets whenever possible.
Pro tip: If you're near a business or shop, step inside and ask to speak with an employee or manager—this simple action can help deter a follower and get you help faster.
3. Make a Pit Stop and Observe
Test your suspicion by making a stop:
-
Duck into a cafe, drugstore, or bookstore. Linger for a few minutes.
-
Watch to see if the person follows you inside or lingers nearby.
-
If they do enter, take a good mental note of their appearance for a potential police report.
If the person behaves strangely inside (loitering, watching you closely), alert staff or call 911 discreetly.
4. Have Your Phone Ready and Fully Charged
Always keep your phone:
-
Fully charged and easily accessible.
-
Pre-loaded with emergency contacts—consider programming the local non-emergency police number too.
-
Enabled with location sharing (more on that below).
If you feel you're in immediate danger, don't hesitate to call 911. If inside a shopping center or public place, ask a security officer for assistance.
5. Test with a Directional Change or Detour
To confirm if you're really being followed:
-
Walk or drive in a pattern—turn right four times to make a square.
-
If they follow through that loop, you can be more confident it's no coincidence.
-
You can also reverse direction abruptly or make a legal U-turn if driving.
"Patterns like making four right turns or reversing direction help you figure out if it's coincidence or intent," explains Sara Thomas from Ackerman Security.
6. Use Location-Sharing and Safety Apps
Technology can be a lifesaver. Consider:
-
Location-sharing apps like Life360 or Find My (Apple) to let loved ones track your movements.
-
Check-in systems: let someone know when you leave and when you should arrive.
-
Emergency alert features: iPhones and Androids both allow you to press the side button multiple times to send an SOS signal with your GPS location.
7. Don't Confront the Suspect
Avoid direct confrontation unless you are in a safe, populated space and absolutely necessary. Confrontation can escalate the situation and put you at greater risk.
8. Plan Ahead
Proactive safety is just as important as reactive steps:
-
Vary your routines—don't take the same route every day.
-
Keep emergency tools on hand like a whistle, flashlight, or personal alarm.
-
Consider self-defense training or carrying pepper spray (where legal).
-
Know local safe zones—police stations, 24-hour stores, and gas stations.
9. Stay Calm and Think Clearly
Above all, maintain your composure. Panic can cloud judgment. Take deep breaths, assess your options, and act with purpose. Staying calm will allow you to implement these safety steps effectively.
Prevention Is Power
While it's terrifying to think someone might be following you, knowing what to do and taking control of the situation can prevent it from escalating. By staying vigilant, using your resources, and having a plan, you can protect yourself and feel empowered in any situation.
