A cyberbully is someone who hurts, threatens or harasses others by sending messages or images through the internet, cell phone or other online device. Cyberbullying comes in many forms including emails, text messages, IM (instant messages), online chats, posts on social network sites or other websites. Some victims have found their online accounts hacked and used to harass other people. In addition, many victims will be harassed and bullied with images they thought were private or that others have manipulated. Victims become publicly humiliated when social networks, websites or group texts and emails are involved.
- Cyberbullying
Bullying has been around forever, but the difference is cyberbullying follows you no matter where you go. Some victims are unable to escape the constant harassment which can lead to depression and isolation. Victims may know who is harassing them, but most of the time, it is anonymous.
Teens find it difficult to report because they are afraid they will make it worse or their online privileges will be taken away. Parents and Schools don’t always know how to handle these situations and can end up making it worse on the victim.
CyberSafeFamily.com, along with other online safety advocates believe this is the number one concern our kids are facing online today. Statistics show more kids are victims of cyberbullying than any other online danger, including webpredators.
Cox Communications Teen Online & Wireless Safety Survey reports that cyberbullying effects more than one-third of teens. These teens either experienced cyberbullying, engaged in it or have a friend who has been involved with either.
If you are being cyberbullied, record the image through the print screen command or save the image, email, text, etc. Then check out Wired Safety’s Cyber Stalking and Harrassment Self Help Presentation to assess your specific situation.
If your child or teen is the cyberbully, you must respond quickly and firmly. If you fail to take action, you may find yourself financially liable. Tell your child you are aware of their actions and explain the harm their behavior has caused. Parents should establish clear boundaries about online behavior. You should consider immediately installing monitoring software on all home computers and on all internet devices. Depending on the severity, you may want to restrict all online access without supervision. Explain the consequences of cyberbullying, which can lead to expulsion from school and criminal prosecution.
According to Wikipedia, Cyberbullying “involves the use of information and communication technologies to support deliberate, repeated, and hostile behavior by an individual or group, that is intended to harm others. -Bill Belsey”
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