Stop Cyberbullying
It only takes one to make a change
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is harassing someone else online, whether it be demeaning comments, threats, hacking accounts, stalking, or posting something about them without their permission. All of these are examples of online bullying, otherwise known as cyberbullying.
Examples of Cyberbullying
Some examples of cyber-bullying include the use of fake accounts to hurt or trick someone else, rumors sent by e-mail or text, or posting an embarrassing video of someone online.
Three differences between cyber-bullying & bullying
Cyber-bullying can happen anywhere at anytime, even when the victim is alone, they are still at risk of being cyber-bullied. The cyber-bullying can also happen anonymously, which means the bully can not be identified. It also spreads much faster by clicking the share button than running around telling everyone. Finally, once a mean comment or picture is posted it is almost impossible to get them permanently deleted.
Bullying vs. Cyberbullying
What it feels like
Statistics of cyberbullying
Effects of Cyberbullying
The effects of cyber-bullying can very easily become long term. Some effects include the use of drugs or alcohol to get their mind of the bullying, skipping school so they don't have to face anyone and be made fun of, receiving lower grades because they are more worried about what people think of them than school, having lower self esteem due to all the negative comments, and finally health problems such as depression or suicidal thoughts.
Prevention and Awareness
Adults can be aware of what is happening to children online by building a connection with their students or kids, so when the children are bullied, they can trust the adult and talk to them about it. They could also have monitoring systems on their computers so that they can see the sites they have been on. They can also block inappropriate sites with a blocking system. Rules are another good way for adults to keep their children from online harm. Finally, knowing the passwords to the kid's accounts is a good way for them to monitor their activities.
Establishing Rules
Some tips to being safe online include: Don't friend people that you and your friends don't know. Never give out personal information that could be used against you, such as passwords, credit card number, etc. Finally, be aware of what is happening on a website before you join. If that site is known for having cyber-bully problems, then avoid joining.
Reporting a Cyberbully
Three immediate steps you can take when being cyber-bullied are block, report, and tell an adult. Block them so they can't upset you with their bullying, report them so a moderator can solve the problem, and show an adult everything that has happened.
Report to your Online Service Provider
Some ways to report it to your online service provider are to read the terms and conditions and report to them that rules are being broken, and report the cyber bully to them so they can see their account.
Report to your local Law Enforcement
If someone is cyber-bullying by doing one of these activities, it is considered a crime and should be reported to law enforcement immediately: Threats of violence, stalking and hate crimes, and taking a photo or video of someone where they would give private information.
Report to your school
Schools can also be a big help in cyber-bullying. Most schools have strict policies against their students cyber- bullying, and they can be dealt with accordingly. They also will be able to confront the bully in person, rather than online.