What Is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is the use of digital technology — including social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms, and email — to deliberately harass, threaten, embarrass, or target another person. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can happen 24 hours a day, reach a large audience instantly, and leave a lasting digital footprint.
It can take many forms, including:
- Sending threatening or hurtful messages
- Spreading rumours or false information online
- Sharing embarrassing photos or videos without consent
- Excluding someone from online groups deliberately
- Impersonating someone online to damage their reputation
- Doxxing (sharing private personal information publicly)
Warning Signs That Someone Is Being Cyberbullied
Cyberbullying can be hard to spot because it often happens privately. Watch for these signs in students or children:
- Becoming upset, anxious, or withdrawn after using a device
- Suddenly avoiding school or social situations
- Being secretive about online activity
- Unexplained changes in mood or sleep patterns
- Reluctance to discuss online activities
- Unexpectedly stopping use of devices or accounts
What To Do If You're Being Cyberbullied
1. Don't Respond or Retaliate
Responding can escalate the situation. Retaliation may also cause you to be seen as part of the problem. Step away from the conversation and give yourself time to calm down.
2. Document Everything
Take screenshots of all harmful messages, posts, or images before blocking or deleting. Note dates, times, and platforms. This evidence will be important if you report the behaviour.
3. Block the Person
Use the platform's block or mute features to stop further contact. Most social media apps and messaging services have straightforward tools for this.
4. Report to the Platform
Every major platform — Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Discord, and others — has reporting tools for abusive behaviour. Use them. Platforms take these reports seriously and can remove content and ban accounts.
5. Tell a Trusted Adult
Whether it's a parent, teacher, or school counsellor, telling someone is not "telling tales" — it's getting the help you deserve. Adults can help escalate the situation if needed.
What Schools Can Do
Schools have a responsibility to address cyberbullying, even when it happens off school grounds if it affects the school environment. Effective responses include:
- Having a clear, published anti-bullying policy that includes cyberbullying
- Training staff to recognise warning signs and respond appropriately
- Establishing anonymous reporting channels for students
- Working with parents when incidents are identified
- Involving law enforcement in serious cases involving threats or illegal content
Supporting Someone Who Has Been Cyberbullied
If a friend or classmate is being cyberbullied, you can make a real difference. Listen without judgement, encourage them to report the behaviour, and avoid sharing or engaging with harmful content about them. Being an upstander — not a bystander — matters.
Key Takeaway
Cyberbullying is never acceptable, and no one should face it alone. By knowing the signs, documenting incidents, and using the right reporting channels, students and schools can work together to stop it.