Dealing with Fake Profiles
What They Are: Fake social media accounts are often created to harm others. These accounts might be used to:
Bully or threaten someone while hiding the user's identity.
Impersonate someone to ruin their reputation.
Trick friends and family into connecting with a fake profile, exposing them to harmful content.
Why It's a Problem: This form of cyberbullying can seriously distress the victim and damage their online reputation. It's crucial to act quickly.
Share Your Experience: Help us understand your experience with fake profiles by filling out this Impact form. Your input can help protect future victims.
Dealing with Fake Profiles
Report the Account: Most social media platforms have a process to report fake profiles. Follow each platform’s steps to report the account. Here are links to report fake profiles on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Pinterest and Instagram. If you need more help, report it via Report Harmful Content.
Save Evidence: Take screenshots or print out the fake profile pages. This can be useful if the problem continues, and you need to work with the platform or the police.
Don’t Monitor Comments: Avoid reading comments or feedback online about the fake profile. This can cause more distress.
Understand It’s Public: Information shared in the fake profile is public. Get the help and support you need to cope with this.
If You Are Being Bullied
It's Not Your Fault: Bullying is never your fault. It happens because of the bully's own issues.
Ask for Help: Reach out to someone you trust, like a friend, relative, or a trusted adult.
Don’t React or Retaliate: Avoid giving the bully the reaction they want. Don’t fight back; it only escalates the situation.
Tell Them to Stop: If you feel safe, tell the bully to stop. Practice with someone you trust if needed.
Use Block Tools: Most social media apps let you block the bully. Report the problem to the service. Blocking can help you avoid seeing the harassment.
Advice for Parents & Carers
Listen: Allow your child to talk about their experience without interrupting. Let them share in their own way.
Don’t Take Away Technology: Reassure your child that their device won't be taken away if they share what's troubling them online.
Talk to Their School: Schools can help resolve online bullying. Discuss the situation with the school, bringing evidence and details.
Contact the Police: If your child is in immediate danger, call the police. If there's a direct threat, contact your local police for support.
Get Expert Help
Consider working with organizations that specialize in supporting bullying victims:
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