Tackling Cyberbullying and Trolls On Social Media

What is cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying occurs when someone uses digital platforms – such as social media, messaging apps, or online games – to harm another person. This behaviour can take many forms, including sending mean messages, posting embarrassing photos, spreading rumours, or leaving hurtful comments. The experience can be especially overwhelming for your child, leaving them feeling vulnerable and exposed. A study published in the BMJ Journal highlights that children who experience cyberbullying are more likely to experience depression and anxiety.

Type of cyberbullying

1. Social exclusion
   This occurs when your child is deliberately left out of activities, such as being excluded from a messaging group or online event that everyone else is part of.
2. Doxing
   These activities involve revealing someone’s personal information without their consent, often with the intent to embarrass, shame, or harm them.
3. Masquerading
   In this form of cyberbullying, the bully creates a fake account pretending to be the victim. They may post embarrassing pictures, statuses, or messages to damage the victim’s reputation.
4. Trolling
   Trolls post intentionally provocative or offensive comments online with the goal of sparking arguments and upsetting others.
5. Cyberstalking
   Cyberstalking involves tracking the victim through social media, gathering personal information about them, and sending threats via messages or email.

What can parents and children do?

1. Stay private
   Privacy settings are essential for protecting your kids' social media accounts. Ensure their accounts are set to private and encourage them to only accept followers they know personally. Public accounts can be easy targets for trolls and cyberbullies.
2. Report and block
   If your kids encounter a cyberbully, the first step is to report the user to the platform. Take screenshots to be able to provide proof if needed. Then, after reporting, block the user to prevent further interactions.
3. Don't engage
   Teach your child not to respond to hateful comments. Engaging with bullies often escalates the situation, giving them the attention they crave. Explain that trolls are typically looking to provoke conflict and waste their time. Ignoring them is often the most effective response.
4. Balance online and offline life
   Help your kids understand the importance of offline activities, hobbies, and friendships. Having a strong offline life provides a healthy balance and emotional support, reducing the impact of negative online experiences.
5. Get help when needed
   If the situation feels threatening, don't hesitate to contact the police. Be sure to collect evidence first by taking screenshots of hateful messages, comments, and other online interactions.

How to help your child cope with cyberbullying

If your child experiences cyberbullying, it’s essential to support them in dealing with the situation. First and foremost, encourage them to speak up. Staying silent does not make the issue go away. Emphasise that cyberbullying is never their fault and reassure them that seeking support and help is not only acceptable but encouraged. Remind them that anyone, even adults, can encounter challenging situations online, and it’s important to address these issues together.

You can read the original article from our DfL partner, ESET: Social media survival: Tackling cyberbullying and trolls