Cyberbullying is the use of electronic communication such as cell phones, computers, and tablets to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature.

Cyberbullying can occur through SMS, text, apps, or online through social media, forums, or games.

The most common places cyberbullying occurs are:

• social media

• text messaging

• instant messaging

• online forums

• chat rooms

• email

• online gaming communities

What can cyberbullying look like?

• sending lies or posting embarrassing photos or videos of someone on social media

• sending hurtful, abusive, or threatening messages, images, or videos

• impersonating someone and sending mean messages to others on their behalf through fake accounts

   

How can I protect my child from cyberbullying?

• set social media accounts to private

• educate them on password safety

• ensure they don't share identifying information

• check their accounts regularly

• report cyberbullies and disengage

• teach your child to think before sharing and posting

• manage location sharing

How can I, as a parent, stop cyberbullying?

• keep the computer in a common area at home

• learn how various social networking apps and sites work

• talk with your child about online issues

• build trust with your child(ren)

• tell you child not to respond to any cyberbullying behaviour

• don't overreact or blame your child

• don't underreact by telling them to "just let it go," or "shrug it off"

• don't threaten to take away your child's device

• talk to your school's family outreach worker

• if threats of physical violence are made, or the bullying escalates, contact police

How can children stop cyberbullying?

• don't respond

• don't be an accomplice

• save, screenshot, and print out all messages

• tell an adult immediately

How schools can stop cyberbullying

• Adopt a zero-tolerance policy

• incorporate internet safety awareness classes or presentations

• discuss bullying prevention 

Useful Links:

• kidshealth.org

• verywellfamily.com

• safewise.com

• Canadian Centre for Child Protection

• protectkidsonline.ca

 Sources: verywellfamily.com, unicef.org, Parents.com