What to Do if You’re Being Followed on Foot or in a Car

Feeling like someone is following you can be unsettling. Whether it happens while walking or driving, it’s important to stay calm and take steps that help keep you safe. This guide explains what to look for and how to respond in a practical, low-risk way.

What the issue is and why it matters

Sometimes people may follow someone with the intention to intimidate, steal or cause harm. Other times, it may be a misunderstanding. Because you may not know the reason, the safest approach is to protect yourself, avoid confrontation and move toward a place where you can get help.

Warning signs you may be followed

Unusual behaviour

When walking, someone may stay close behind you for an extended period, repeatedly appear on the same streets, or adjust their pace to match yours. When driving, a car may turn whenever you turn or remain behind you through several changes of direction.

Repeated presence

If you change direction, cross the street, or vary your speed and the person or vehicle still remains nearby, this may indicate they are intentionally keeping pace.

Behaviour that feels wrong

Trusting your instincts matters. If something feels out of place or the person’s behaviour makes you uncomfortable, it is safer to take precautions.

How to stay safe and prevent harm

Move to a safer place

If you are on foot, head toward a busy shop, café, or any public area with people around. Avoid quiet shortcuts or isolated paths.

Change your route

Turn onto streets with more activity or better lighting. If you are driving, continue moving and avoid stopping in quiet or unfamiliar places.

Do not confront anyone

Confronting a person who may be following you can increase risk. Keeping your distance is the safest option.

Call someone you trust

If possible, discreetly call a friend or family member and tell them where you are. Speaking calmly can also help you stay grounded.

Avoid going home

If you believe someone is intentionally following you, do not lead them to your home or workplace. Go instead to a public location.

Stay aware of traffic and surroundings

Focus on your safety. Avoid using headphones, texting or looking down at your phone while moving.

When to contact the police

If you feel you are in danger, call 911 immediately. If someone is following you in a threatening way, attempting to approach you, or trying to force you to stop your vehicle, contact police straight away. Do not put yourself at risk by stopping to speak with the person or trying to gather information about them.

Report crime anonymously

If you have information about someone who may be targeting others or engaging in suspicious behaviour, you can share it anonymously with Crime Stoppers Bermuda. No identifying details are collected, stored or traced, and your information is passed to law enforcement safely and discreetly.

Call 800-8477 or use our online form to report a crime anonymously.