Cyberbullying is bullying with the use of digital technologies. It can take place on social media, messaging platforms, gaming platforms and mobile phones. It is repeated behaviour, aimed at scaring, angering or shaming those who are targeted.
spreading lies about or posting embarrassing photos or videos of someone on social media
sending hurtful, abusive or threatening messages, images or videos via messaging platforms
impersonating someone and sending mean messages to others on their behalf or through fake accounts.
What to do if you are noticing cyberbullying?
Break off Contact
Do not respond to or forward any cyberbullying posts or messages.
Block the cyberbully on social media and from your contacts for text and phone. Move email messages to your 'Junk' folder.
Only share your passwords with adults that you trust.
Learn to use the privacy settings and reporting features on your social media accounts.
Keep personal information like your date of birth, where you live, schedule and contact information private.
Remember you are not alone. Tell someone you trust what happened, whether that's a parent, a teacher or a friend.
If you feel physically threatened or if a crime was committed, call the police immediately.
Keep any cyberbullying texts or emails, or screenshot any social media posts. You may want to have a record of the incident in case you ever need to prove what happened.
Report the incident to the social media site it happened on. They have policies against abuse, and whoever violates those policies will likely get notified and prevented from using that site.