Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is:

Emailing or texting threatening or nasty messages

Posting an embarrassing or humiliating video of someone

Harassing someone by repeatedly sending messages through an app or in a chat room

setting up profiles to make fun of someone

“Happy slapping” – when people film and share videos of physical attacks

Posting or forwarding someone else’s personal or private information or images without their permission Sending viruses Making abusive comments

How to respond to cyberbullying

Talk to someone you trust such as a parent, friend, carer or a teacher. Schools have a responsibility to ensure students aren’t bullied and to take action.

You can also call ChildLine on 0800 1111 or visit childnet.com for safety advice. Report the bullying to your internet or mobile phone provider. Block instant messages and emails.

Report serious bullying, such as physical or sexual threats, to the police. Don’t delete the upsetting emails or messages. Keep them as evidence to help identify the bully. Don’t reply.

A reply is what a bully wants, and it might make things worse.

How to avoid being cyberbullied

Don’t give out any personal details. Think carefully before posting photos or videos online.

Protect passwords, and never give access to your online accounts to anyone.

Use the privacy settings provided on social media. Learn how to report bullying to social media sites, internet service providers or website administrators.