Cyberbullying: A Common Form of Online Abuse

The internet is an incredible invention, allowing people to access fascinating information and instantly connect with any part of the world. Through social media, we stay in touch with friends and family, but this fascinating world also has hidden risks. Since the internet is a virtual space, it’s often difficult to tell who is actually communicating with you and who might view or misuse photos shared by you or your family.

Since the internet is a primary tool for entertainment, learning, and social connections, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and dangers it may pose. What hidden threats exist online, and what should we know about them?
Cyberbullying: A Common Form of Online Abuse
Cyberbullying is a form of online violence that includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or humiliating messages, photos, or videos about someone. It may also involve sharing personal or intimate information that causes embarrassment or distress. Sadly, girls are more often victims of cyberbullying.

Cyberbullying typically occurs through digital devices like mobile phones, computers, and tablets. It can happen via SMS or online, through social media, forums, or games where people can view, participate in, and share various content.

Examples of Cyberbullying Include:
Sending harmful or offensive messages
Creating fake accounts to deceive or humiliate someone
Spreading malicious rumors or lies
Sharing embarrassing photos or videos to mock or belittle someone
Isolating someone from an online group
Common Platforms for Cyberbullying:
Social media, such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok
Messaging apps like Messenger, WhatsApp, Viber, and Telegram on mobile devices
Online forums, email, and gaming groups
Types of Cyberbullying Content:
Posts
Comments
Messages in open or closed groups
Live streaming
Memes
Photos and videos
Emails

Why Should We Be Careful? With the increasing use of social media and digital forums, comments, photos, posts, and shared content are visible to both friends and strangers. All of this creates a lasting public record of your views, activities, and behaviors.

This public record forms your online reputation, which can be accessible to not only your friends and family but also schools, potential employers, sports clubs, and other organizations. Cyberbullying can harm anyone’s online reputation, affecting not only the target but also those who participate in or witness the bullying.

Resist the Urge to Respond

Try not to react to bullying directed at you. Responding often worsens the situation, as people may say hurtful things just to provoke you and draw you into their trap.

Take a Screenshot as Evidence

If you encounter or become the target of abusive or uncomfortable online content, your first reaction might be to delete it. However, it’s essential to keep evidence. Before blocking or deleting the bully, take a screenshot as proof.

If the bullying content involves nude or semi-nude photos of anyone under 18, remember that even possessing or sharing such images is illegal.

Report the Platform or Service

Most social media services, games, and apps have tools to report and block cyberbullying. If someone continues posting harmful content about you, and you learn about it from friends, ask them to report it as well.

Talk to Someone

Seek Support

Cyberbullying can make you feel isolated. Try talking to people you trust and seek support from friends or adults who will support you unconditionally.