Cyberbullying is bullying with the use of digital technologies. It can take place on social media, messaging platforms, gaming platforms and mobile phones. It is repeated behaviour, aimed at scaring, angering or shaming those who are targeted. Examples include:

• spreading lies about or posting embarrassing photos of someone on social media
• sending hurtful messages or threats via messaging platforms
• impersonating someone and sending mean messages to others on their behalf.

Cyberbullying can include:

• Sending/sharing nasty, hurtful or abusive messages or emails
• Humiliating others by posting/sharing embarrassing videos or images
• Spreading rumours or lies online
• Setting up fake online profiles
• Excluding others online
• Repeated harassment and threatening messages (cyberstalking)

What are the effects of cyberbullying?

When bullying happens online it can feel as if you’re being attacked everywhere, even inside your own home. It can seem like there’s no escape. The effects can last a long time and affect a person in many ways:

• Mentally — feeling upset, embarrassed, stupid, even angry feeling ashamed or losing interest in the things you love
• Physically — tired (loss of sleep), or experiencing symptoms like stomach aches and headaches

What makes cyberbullying so hurtful?

While any type of bullying can be hurtful, cyberbullying can hurt someone just as much as physical or verbal bullying because:

• It’s public – lots of people can see it
• It spreads quickly
• It can be hard to escape
• The bully can be anonymous
• Removing it can be a difficult process

Who should I talk to if someone is bullying me online?

If you think you’re being bullied, the first step is to seek help from someone you trust such as your parents, a close family member or another trusted adult.

In your school you can reach out to a counsellor, the sports coach or your favorite teacher.

And if you are not comfortable talking to someone you know, search for a helpline in your country to talk to a professional counsellor.

If you are in immediate danger, then you should contact the police or emergency services in your country.