Cyberbullying Awareness
Cyberbullying is the use of electronic communication such as cell phones, computers, and tablets to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature.
Cyberbullying can occur through SMS, text, apps, or online through social media, forums, or games.
The most common places cyberbullying occurs are:
social media
text messaging
instant messaging
online forums
chat rooms
email
online gaming communities
What can cyberbullying look like?
sending lies or posting embarrassing photos or videos of someone on social media
sending hurtful, abusive, or threatening messages, images, or videos
impersonating someone and sending mean messages to others on their behalf through fake accounts
How can I protect my child from cyberbullying?
set social media accounts to private
educate them on password safety
ensure they don't share identifying information
check their accounts regularly
report cyberbullies and disengage
teach your child to think before sharing and posting
manage location sharing
How can I, as a parent, stop cyberbullying?
keep the computer in a common area at home
learn how various social networking apps and sites work
talk with your child about online issues
build trust with your child(ren)
tell you child not to respond to any cyberbullying behaviour
don't overreact or blame your child
don't underreact by telling them to "just let it go," or "shrug it off"
don't threaten to take away your child's device
talk to your school's family outreach worker
if threats of physical violence are made, or the bullying escalates, contact police
How can children stop cyberbullying?
don't respond
don't be an accomplice
save, screenshot, and print out all messages
tell an adult immediately
How schools can stop cyberbullying
Adopt a zero-tolerance policy
incorporate internet safety awareness classes or presentations
discuss bullying prevention
Useful Links:
Sources: verywellfamily.com, unicef.org, Parents.com