VICTIMS ARE EASY TARGETS

A cyberbully is intent on causing fear and suffering just like a normal bully but they are potentially more dangerous because they can target their victims using the internet and mobile phones to send text messages, emails, access chat rooms, instant messaging and social networking sites such as Facebook and Bebo.

Victims having easy access to these technologies mean that there is no a safe hiding place, they can be contacted twenty four hours a day. All too often we hear about the fear, depression and loneliness that may lead to suicide. No type of bullying is harmless. In some cases, it can constitute criminal behaviour. The anonyminity of the internet also make it easy for children who would normally stand by to join in and become active participants because they do not have to confront the victim face to face.

RAISE AWARENESS

A large number of children who experience cyberbullying do not report it and it often goes undetected by parents and teachers alike. It is important that we raise awareness of the issues so that victims are not afraid to talk and report it.

KEY ADVICE