Judiciary notes sharp rise in cyber harassment restraining orders following new law

The New Jersey Assembly Budget Committee convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding cybersecurity and legal protections for victims of stalking and cyber harassment. The meeting highlighted the judiciary's ongoing efforts to adapt to the evolving landscape of cyber threats and the significant increase in protective orders following recent legislative changes.

During the session, officials reported that despite challenges, operations continued smoothly over a two-week period, demonstrating resilience in the face of cybersecurity threats. Stakeholders, including local police departments and private law firms, are collaborating to enhance education and protection against ransomware and other cyber risks.

A significant focus of the meeting was the impact of a new law that allows victims of stalking and cyber harassment to seek restraining orders against their perpetrators. This legislation, which closed a loophole that previously excluded non-family members from obtaining protective orders, has led to a dramatic rise in applications—from approximately 100 per month to 1,600. This surge underscores the growing recognition of cyberbullying and the need for legal recourse for victims, particularly among youth.

Judiciary representatives acknowledged that while there had been no dedicated resources allocated to this area previously, the increase in protective orders may necessitate a reevaluation of resource distribution in the future. The committee expressed a commitment to tracking these cases and providing data to better understand the implications of the new law.

The meeting concluded with a light-hearted acknowledgment of past concerns regarding the state's outdated systems and their vulnerability to cyberattacks. However, the focus remained on the pressing need to protect individuals from cyber threats and ensure that the legal system is equipped to respond effectively to these challenges.