Cyberbullying & Cyberharassment | Internet Safety - Class 8 PDF Download

Introduction

Cyberbullying is bullying that occurs online, often through instant messaging, text messages, emails, and social networks. Cyberbullies may be the same age as the victims, or they may be older. If the perpetrator is an adult, it is generally called cyber-stalking or cyberharassment.
Cyberbullying can be just as hurtful as other types of bullying, and in some ways it can actually be worse. Cyberbullying is not limited to the playground; it can occur anytime children are online, even if they're at home. Also, the bully can sometimes remain anonymous, which can make the bullying more difficult to stop.

Examples of Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying can take many forms. Below are some examples of things that can be considered cyberbullying:

• Writing hurtful things through instant messaging, text messaging, or online games
• Posting derogatory messages on social networking sites
• Posting or sharing embarrassing photos or videos
• Creating a fake profile in order to humiliate someone

Responding to Cyberbullying

• Don't reply to the bully: Bullies often want to get a reaction from their victims. If you ignore them, they may lose interest.
• If possible, block messages from the bully: If the bullying is happening in chat, email, or on a social networking site, you can usually block all messages from the bully.
• Keep all emails and other messages that the bully sends: You may need to use these as evidence at some point.
• Report the bullying to a parent or trusted adult: If the bullying continues, tell a parent or trusted adult (such as a teacher) so they can help you deal with the problem.

Is your child a cyberbully?

Kids can be mean sometimes. Unfortunately, the Internet often makes it easier for people to say hurtful things because it's more impersonal and anonymous than real life. As a result, many kids participate in cyberbullying even though they don't consider themselves bullies.
It's important for your children to understand that the comments they make online can hurt just as much as those made face to face. Make sure they know not to say anything online that they wouldn't say in person.
It's also possible for kids to face serious consequences for cyberbullying. Many schools now have zero-tolerance policies for bullying, which may include cyberbullying that occurs outside of school. In some cases, students have even been suspended from school for cyberbullying.