Let your kids know that they can’t hide behind the words they type and the images they post. Bullying is a lose-lose situation. Cruel messages not only make the recipient feel bad, but also make the sender look bad. Frequently, they can bring ridicule from peers and punishment from authorities.Ask your kids to let you […]

Cyberbullying refers to using technology to harass, or bully, someone else. Bullies previously were restricted to methods such as physical intimidation, postal mail, or the telephone. Now, improvements in electronic media offer forums such as email, instant messaging, web pages, and digital photos to increase to the arsenal. Computers and smart phones are present-day tools […]

Playing games online with friends can be a great time, but not everyone likes to follow the rules. Be sure to report harassment, whether via messages or voice chat, and mark any spam messages as well to mitigate security risks for yourself and the rest of the online community. Developers should take swift action to […]

If you or your children are being harassed or endangered, report the activity. Numerous schools have started bullying programs, so school officials may have established policies for dealing with activity that involves students. If necessary, contact your local law enforcement. Law enforcement agencies have different policies, but your local police department or FBI branch are […]

Limiting the number of people who have access to contact information or details about interests, habits, or employment reduces exposure to bullies that you or your child do not know. This may limit the risk of becoming a victim and may make it easier to identify the bully if you or your children are victimized.

Don’t react to the bully. If your child is targeted by a cyberbully, keep a cool head. Remind your child that most people realize bullying is wrong. Tell your child not to respond in kind. Instead, encourage him or her to work with you to save the evidence and talk to you about it. If […]