Cyberbullying

The use of electronic communication such as email, text, or social media to bully someone.

Effects of cyber harassment:

Cyberbullying can be very serious and may cause the victim to experience depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and social isolation. If left unchecked cyberbullying can have a lasting effect on the victims mental health, and in extreme cases, has been linked to suicide.

Common tactics used by cyberbullies:

• Sending threatening, derogatory, or abusive messages

• Publishing private or sensitive information about the victim online without their consent

• Stalking or harassing the victim

• Encouraging others to also bully the victim

Red flags:

• They withdraw from social activities

• Sudden changes in mood or behavior

• Avoidance of certain people or places

• Stealthy use of technology

• Changes in work or school performance

Immediate actions:

• Stop all communication with the bully.

• Report the bully to the website or platform that the bullying took place on.

• Save texts, emails, screenshots, and social media posts as evidence.

• Seek support from friends, family, or professionals.

• Report any threats of violence, child pornography, sexually explicit messages, etc. to law enforcement.

• If you are currently in danger of cyberbullying, harassment, or stalking, call 911.