Cyberbullying Tips from ConnectSafely.org

Cyberbullying can be defined as the use of the Internet and other related technologies to harm other people, in a deliberate, repeated, and hostile manner.
As it has become more common in society, particularly among young people, legislation and awareness campaigns have arisen to combat it.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyber-bullying#Cyberbullying_vs._cyberstalking)

Top 5 Cyberbullying Tips

Don’t respond. If someone bullies you, remember that your reaction is usually exactly what the bully wants.

Don’t retaliate. Getting back at the bully turns you into one and reinforces the bully’s behavior. Help avoid a whole cycle of aggression.

Save the evidence. The only good news about digital bullying is that the harassing messages can usually be captured, saved, and shown to someone who can help. You need to do this even if it’s minor stuff, in case things escalate.

Talk to a trusted adult. You deserve backup. It’s always good to involve a parent but – if you can’t – a school counselor usually knows how to help. Sometimes both are needed. If you’re really nervous about saying something, see if there’s a way to report the incident anonymously at school.

Block the bully. If the harassment’s coming in the form of instant messages, texts, or profile comments, do yourself a favor: Use preferences or privacy tools to block the person.

Please share the above tips with your children and encourage them to talk to you if they feel uncomfortable, scared or anxious.