Cyber-bullying is different from traditional bullying in that it happens online, via messages, apps or even emails and doesn’t stop just because school has ended for the day - it can go on 24/7. It can happen when your child is alone at night or even in the morning before they go to school, which can make it particularly distressing. Unfortunately, it is not simply about sending nasty threats or name calling. Cyber-bullying comes in other, sometimes more serious, forms.
Here are six ways your child can be cyber-bullied:
Posting malicious rumours online
It is easy for rumours and gossip to spread quickly via the internet. This can either be by posting untrue and malicious things about your child or exaggerating the truth to embarrass or turn people away from your son or daughter.
Sending threats via email or social media sites
It’s not all about name calling or hair pulling, bullying is also when someone makes threats towards your child. These can be sent via email or by apps that cause messages to disappear, leaving no evidence. If your little one is a victim of abusive threats you need to screen grab the offending piece as soon as it comes in or print if off.
Leaving nasty comments under pictures they have shared
Another way your child can be a victim of cyber-bullying is when someone writes rude or nasty comments under photos or posts your child has shared on their own social media page.
Creating blogs aimed at your child
A blog is like a website that allows the user to create and write about anything they like. Unfortunately, they can be used in a negative way and bullies can use them to create damaging profiles about your child.
Sending hateful messages using your child's identity
Another way kids can be cyber-bullied is when a person creates a profile using your child’s information and posts nasty comments to other people using your son or daughter's details.
Sending graphic images to your youngster
Cyber-bullies can sign your child up to receive inappropriate and graphic images without their consent or knowledge. Your child can be blamed for signing up to receive these, often by parents.
