CYBERBULLYING

Cyberbullying is when a young person uses the internet or technology to harass, threaten, embarrass, or target another person. Cyberbullying involves tweens and teens, but adults also experience cyberbullying as well.

Cyberbullying can be particularly damaging and upsetting because it is usually anonymous or hard to trace. It is also hard to control, and the person being victimised has no idea how many people have seen the messages or posts.

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) advice young people to follow the tips below to deal with cyberbullying


HOW TO DEAL WITH CYBERBULLYING

Tell Someone

The first thing to do is to tell an adult you trust when you are experiencing online bullying. Teenagers who are cyberbullied may feel embarrassed or reluctant to report a bully. Cyberbullying can get worse, so speak up until you find someone to help. You can also contact the CSA on 292 to tackle such issues confronting teenagers and the adult as well.

Walk Away

Ignoring bullies online is the best way to take away their power, but it is not always easy to do. If you see something upsetting, try to step away from the computer or turn off your phone for a while. Do not respond, and never forward the message to someone else.

Taking a break will allow you to keep things in perspective and focus on the good things in your life. It also gives you time to figure out how you want to handle things

Report bullying

Social media sites take it seriously when people post cruel or mean stuff or set up fake accounts. If users report abuse, the site administrator may block the bully from using the site in the future. If someone sends you mean texts or emails, report it to phone service or email providers (such as Google, WhatsApp, MTN).

Block the bully

Most devices have settings that let you electronically block the bully or bullies from sending notes. If you do not know how to do this, ask a friend or adult who does, so that you can block such bullies from engaging with you.

Be safe online

Password protect your smartphone and change your passwords often. It is also wise to think twice before sharing personal information or photos/videos that you do not want the world to see. Once you post a photo or message, it can be difficult or impossible to delete. Remind yourself to be cautious when posting photos or responding to someone's upsetting message.


INCIDENT REPORTING

Report any such cyberbullying to the Cyber Security Authority through any of the Points of Contact for assistance