Reporting a post on a platform is important, but it’s often not enough.
If threats, intimidation, or harassment are ongoing, candidates and social media teams should know how to document incidents properly so that further action can be taken if needed.
Take screenshots that clearly show the username, date, and time of the post, along with as much context as possible.
If the post contains multiple screenshots, capture each one individually.
If the content is a video or audio clip, download a copy to your phone or computer.
Copy and save the text of the post, the username, and the post’s URL, along with the date and time it was posted.
You can store this in a document, spreadsheet, or note — whatever is easiest to manage and keep secure.
Make sure you’ve saved the evidence first.
When you report content on a social platform, you may not receive a confirmation or tracking number (for example, YouTube provides one; X does not).
Take screenshots of the reporting steps as well, so you have a record of what was submitted.
If you face a serious threat or a sustained campaign of harassment, the information you’ve recorded will be vital for any investigation by the authorities or other organisations.
For detailed guidance on how to record and document online harassment, see the Glitch handbook on online abuse.
Racial harassment can also be reported to iReport.ie. Reports help build a broader picture of racist incidents in Ireland. iReport.ie does not share information with authorities, but uses the data to inform, lobby, and influence government policy on racial harassment.