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Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place using electronic technology. Electronic technology includes devices and equipment such as cell phones, computers, and tablets as well as communication tools including social media sites, text messages, chats, and websites.
Examples of cyberbullying may include and are not limited to mean text messages or emails, rumors sent by email or posted on social networking sites, and embarrassing pictures, videos, websites, or fake profiles.
Report Cyberbullying
When cyberbullying happens, it is important to document and report the behavior so it can be addressed.
Steps to Take Immediately
- Don’t respond to and/or forward cyberbullying messages.
- Don’t delete the evidence of cyberbullying. Record the dates, times, and descriptions of instances when cyberbullying has occurred. Save and print screenshots, emails, and text messages. Use this evidence to report cyberbullying to web and cell phone service providers.
- Block the person who is cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying Warning Signs
A child may be a victim of cyberbullying if he or she…
A child may be cyberbullying others if he or she…
· unexpectedly stops using the computer
· quickly switches screens or closes programs when you walk by
· appears nervous or jumpy when an Instant Message, text message or Email appears
· uses the computer at all hours of the night
· appears uneasy about going to school or outside in general
· gets unusually upset if he/she cannot use the computer
· appears to be angry, depressed, or frustrated after using the computer
· laughs excessively while using the computer
· avoids discussions about what they are doing on the computer
· avoids discussions about what they are doing on the computer
· avoidance of friends, school or other activities
· uses multiple online accounts or using an account that is not their own
· decline in grades
Source: Cyberbullying Research Center
What can parents do to stop cyberbullying?
- Save all evidence of the cyberbullying.
- Try to identify the cyberbully.
- Send one clear message stating “Do not communicate with me again or I will contact the appropriate authorities.
- Contact the ISP (internet service provider), forward messages and request the account be terminated
- Notify the website and request removal of inappropriate material.
- Contact the phone company if bullying is happening through a cell phone.
- Contact the police if severe.
- Discuss bullying and cyberbullying with your children.
- Emphasize the importance of speaking out against cyberbullying and reporting it to an adult.
Be Aware of What Your Kids are Doing Online
- Talk with your kids about cyberbullying and other online issues regularly.
- Know the sites your kids visit and their online activities. Ask where they’re going, what they’re doing, and who they’re doing it with.
- Tell your kids that as a responsible parent you may review their online communications if you think there is reason for concern. Installing parental control filtering software or monitoring programs are one option for monitoring your child’s online behavior, but do not rely solely on these tools.
- Have a sense of what they do online and in texts. Learn about the sites they like. Try out the devices they use.
- Ask for their passwords, but tell them you’ll only use them in case of emergency
- Ask to “friend” or “follow” your kids on social media sites or ask another trusted adult to do so.
- Encourage your kids to tell you immediately if they, or someone they know, is being cyberbullied. Explain that you will not take away their computers or cell phones if they confide in you about a problem they are having
Learn more about Cyberbullying and What Adults Can Do to Prevent and Address it- (Cyberbullying Tip Sheet)