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Cyberbullying
If you're experiencing cyberbullying, you're not alone. It can be difficult to cope with and escape. Find out what cyberbullying is and what you can do to protect yourself.
If you are 8-15 years old, this section is for you.
What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is using technology to bully or hurt someone else.
Cyberbullying can include:
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Sending/sharing nasty, hurtful, or abusive messages/emails
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Humiliating others by posting/sharing embarrassing videos or images of them
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Spreading rumors or lies online
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Setting up fake online profiles to scam or catfish people
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Excluding others online
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Harassing people or sending them threatening messages. This is also called "cyberstalking"
What makes cyberbullying so hurtful?
While any type of bullying can be hurtful, cyberbullying can hurt someone just as much as regular bullying (physical or verbal).
It's public -- anyone can see it
It spreads quickly
It can be hard to escape
The bully can be anonymous
Removing it can be a difficult process
It is important to keep in mind that dealing with any type of bullying is about finding a solution that works for you.
Here are some steps you can take:
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Tell them it's not okay
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Contact your local police department if necessary
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Block and report the person
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Report the post of image
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Seek help from a teacher or trusted adult
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Keep evidence -- take screenshots of posts, comments, photos, and texts
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Turn off your devices for a while -- do something you enjoy
What do you do if you see others being cyberbullied?
Cyberbullying may be happening to someone you know. Watch out for these signs.
How to tell if someone is being cyberbullied:
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Your friend suddenly avoids using social media, their phone, or their computer
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They often seem upset, withdrawn or angry -- they act this way after receiving emails, texts, or messages on social media
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Your friend becomes more secretive about their online activities
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They don't want to leave the house -- you stop seeing them at social events or clubs they used to enjoy
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Their grades are falling and they are behind on schoolwork
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They are not eating or sleeping well
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They suddenly delete a social networking profile
It is very important to respond if you if you see others being bullied. You can help stop cyberbullying!
Here's what you can do:
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Immediately tell a trusted adult and get them to help you report it
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Do not forward or share the post/photo
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Do not take part in the bullying. If this bullying takes place in a group or conversation, leave.
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Remind your friend that they haven't done anything to deserve this and that NO ONE deserves to be treated this way. It will help put them at ease.
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If it is safe, ask the person to stop. If you know the individual, call them and ask them why this is going on. Tell them that this behavior is not okay and ask them to stop
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Check back with your friend from time to time to see how they're doing. Show them the kindness they need to see!
Check out this video from Fight Child Abuse! Think before you post and follow these simple steps: Block, report, and tell a trusted adult
There are ways to protect yourself
If you're being cyberbullied
it's important to remember
There is help available
It's NOT your fault
There are things you can do
You're not alone
It's not weak to get help
It will get better
Do you know your net? Click "Take Quiz Now" if you think you're ready to test your #NetKnowledge!
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