Dealing with Online Harassment & Bullying
Online harassment comes in many forms, like cyberbullying, trolling, doxing, and more. It usually involves using personal information or abusive messages to cause you distress. Social media is often the platform of choice for perpetrators who hide behind fake or hacked profiles.
If you don't feel safe and the harassment is persistent, you may be a victim of cyberstalking. Check out SPARC for more information. If your dealing with fake online profiles, see the guide here.
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First Steps in Dealing with Online Harassment
Document Everything: Save copies of all instances of harassment. Take screenshots or print the pages. This can be useful evidence for the police or social media platforms.
Report It to the Police: The police take online harassment seriously. Report the abuse early to the police or file a complaint with the FBI at ic3.gov. If there's an immediate threat to your safety, call 911.
Be Good at Security: Consider using sites like Secure our World and FBI SOS! to improve your understanding of online security. The more secure you are, the more likely the bully will be able to contact you online.
Remember It's Not Your Fault: The abuser could be someone you know or a stranger. Speak to someone close to you and seek support from victim support charities if needed.
Dealing with Online Harassment
Try Not to Engage: Bullies want a reaction. Ignore their comments, and they might move on to another target.
Avoid Deleting Content (Unless Personal): Deleting comments shows they've been read, which might encourage more abuse. Only delete comments if they contain personal information or sensitive images.
Report Abuse to Platforms: Most social media platforms have ways to report abuse. They take it seriously and will help resolve the issue. If the platform isn't helpful, report it to Report Harmful Content.
Block Offending Accounts: If the abuser is persistent, block their accounts. They might create new profiles, so continue reporting and blocking.
Stick to the Facts: If you feel the need to respond, avoid getting emotional. State your case with facts and move on.
If You Are Being Bullied
Know It's Not Your Fault: Bullying is due to the bully's personal issues. It's not your fault.
Reach Out for Help: Talk to someone who can listen and support you—a friend, relative, or trusted adult.
Don't Respond or Retaliate: Bullies seek power over you. Responding can escalate the situation. Remove yourself from the situation if possible.
Tell the Person to Stop: Only do this if you feel comfortable. Make it clear you won't tolerate their behavior. Practice with a trusted person if needed.
Use Available Tools: Block the person on social media and report the problem to the service. This won't end the harassment, but it will help reduce exposure.
Advice for Parents & Carers
Let Them Talk: Give your child space to share their experience. Listen without interrupting or making them feel embarrassed.
Don't Deny Access to Technology: Reassure your child that their device won't be taken away if they speak up about online worries.
Talk to Their School: Schools can help resolve online bullying. Share evidence of bullying with the school and discuss it together.
Contact the Police If Necessary: If your child is in immediate danger, call the police. Report any direct threats of violence.
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