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Cyberbullying

Online bullying, also known as cyber-bullying, is when one person bullies another using an online platform, such as social media or messaging services. Sometimes the bullying can be obvious, other times it’s subtler such as leaving someone out of a group chat. This kind of bullying is often repetitive in its nature. The fact that electronic devices are so accessible all the time means that it can be hard for young people to escape the harassment.

What are examples of cyberbullying?

  • creating lies or sharing embarrassing photos/videos of someone online, usually on social media

  • sending rude, abusive or threatening messages to someone, these messages can also include images or videos 

  • pretending to be someone and/or sending hurtful messages to people through fake accounts.

Cyberbullying often happens alongside in-person bullying, this means it is hard for children to escape it, even when they are 'safe' at home. 

What are the effects of cyberbullying?

Young people being cyberbullied may start to feel anxious, depressed, nervous and insecure. It can lead to them withdrawing from their friends and family, thinking of themselves in a negative way and experiencing loneliness. Often people who are experiencing cyberbullying get headaches, nausea and stomachaches. 

Occasionally, cyberbullying can cause a young person to want to skip school, become violent or self-destructive. It is important to note, every case is different and the effects of cyberbullying will vary.

How can you help someone being cyberbullied?

  1. Help them block and report the person that is cyberbullying them.

  2. Report any images or videos that have been posted online as part of the cyberbullying.

  3. Make sure to tell the person being cyberbullied that it is not their fault.

  4. Notify their school, but make sure to let the person know that you are going to do this.

  5. Support them to keep a record of the cyberbullying, this is often needed if the bully's parents, the school or the police get involved.

  6. Encourage them to take time away from the internet and do other things they enjoy.

Think someone you know is in danger?

We are an educational and preventative charity, please see this page for signposts to all the different organisations that can give you immediate support or advice.

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As a self-funded charity we rely on the kind donations of people like you to stay in schools educating children about the dangers they face online.

 

If you can, please do support us today. 

Join the fight 
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