What to Do If You Think Someone’s Following You: Steps to Stay Safe

Feeling like someone might be following you is a frightening and unsettling experience. Whether it’s a car that seems to appear in your rearview mirror repeatedly or a stranger showing up in unexpected places, the uncertainty alone can cause significant anxiety. Many people second-guess themselves in these situations — wondering if they’re being paranoid or overreacting. But your instincts matter. When something feels off, it’s important to take it seriously.

In a city as large and fast-paced as Los Angeles, stalking and harassment cases unfortunately happen more often than many realize. Victims can include anyone — from private citizens and professionals to public figures and business owners. These situations can escalate quickly if ignored, which is why awareness and proactive action are so important.

At Kinsey Investigations, we’ve helped countless individuals who felt unsafe or suspected someone was following them. Our licensed, discreet investigators understand both the fear and the uncertainty that come with these situations. Whether the threat is real or perceived, your safety and peace of mind come first. There are smart, practical steps you can take to protect yourself while gathering information to confirm what’s really happening — and if needed, prepare evidence for law enforcement or legal action.

Below are essential steps to take if you believe someone is following or watching you — and how a professional private investigator can help you regain control and feel safe again.

1. Trust Your Instincts and Stay Calm

The first step is to acknowledge your feelings without letting fear take over. If your intuition tells you something’s not right, don’t dismiss it. Stay aware of your surroundings, but avoid panic. Keeping a level head allows you to think clearly and take deliberate actions to protect yourself.

2. Vary Your Routine

If you believe you’re being followed, avoid predictable patterns. Change your routes to work, gym, or home. Leave at different times or use alternate forms of transportation. A stalker or harasser often relies on familiarity and predictability — breaking your routine can make it harder for them to track you.

3. Document Everything

Keep a detailed log of incidents, including dates, times, locations, vehicle descriptions, and any interactions. Take note of license plate numbers, physical descriptions, or photos if it’s safe to do so. This documentation can be crucial if you decide to involve law enforcement or hire a private investigator. Even small details can help identify patterns or establish proof of stalking behavior.

4. Tell Someone You Trust

Don’t try to handle the situation alone. Inform a friend, family member, or coworker about your concerns. Share your schedule and check in regularly. Having someone aware of what’s happening can help ensure your safety — and provide emotional support while you deal with the stress of being followed.

5. Avoid Direct Confrontation

It can be tempting to confront the person you believe is following you, but this can be extremely dangerous. Stalkers or harassers may react unpredictably, and confrontation could escalate the situation. Instead, focus on staying safe and collecting information discreetly.

6. Strengthen Your Home and Personal Security

If you think you’re being watched or followed, enhance your safety at home and in public. Install security cameras, change your locks if necessary, and consider adding motion-activated lighting around your property. Carry your phone at all times, and make sure location-sharing is enabled with someone you trust.

7. Contact Law Enforcement if You Feel in Immediate Danger

If at any point you believe your safety is at risk, call 911 right away. Police can provide an immediate response and help you file an official report. In California, stalking and harassment are serious crimes, and having documentation or witness statements can strengthen your case.

8. Hire a Licensed Private Investigator

When you suspect someone is following or harassing you but lack concrete proof, a licensed private investigator can provide professional help. At Kinsey Investigations, we specialize in discreet surveillance, evidence collection, and threat assessment for stalking and harassment cases.

Our investigators can:

• Conduct professional surveillance to verify whether you are being followed.
• Gather legally admissible evidence to present to law enforcement or in court.
• Identify the individual or individuals responsible for the stalking.
• Work closely with your attorney or the police to support protective orders or criminal cases.

Because we are a woman-owned and operated private investigation agency, we understand the emotional impact these situations have, especially for women who may feel particularly vulnerable. Our team approaches every case with compassion, professionalism, and complete confidentiality.

9. Prioritize Your Emotional Well-Being

Feeling unsafe takes a major toll on your mental health. It’s completely normal to experience stress, anxiety, or sleep issues in these situations. Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or join a support group for stalking victims. Remember — you’re not alone, and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Your Safety Comes First — Kinsey Investigations Can Help

If you believe someone is following you or making you feel unsafe, don’t wait until the situation escalates. You have every right to feel secure in your daily life, and professional help is available. The team at Kinsey Investigations has decades of experience handling stalking, harassment, and personal protection cases throughout Los Angeles and Southern California.

Our licensed investigators use advanced surveillance techniques, GPS tracking (within legal limits), and detailed reporting to uncover the truth and help you take back control of your life. We handle every case with complete discretion and compassion, ensuring your safety, privacy, and peace of mind.

Contact Kinsey Investigations today for a free, confidential consultation. Whether you need immediate help or just want to discuss your concerns, our team is here to listen — and to help you feel safe again.