Dealing with Cyberbullies?

What is cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying refers to the practice of using technology to harass, or bully, someone else. Bullies are taking advantage of electronic media such as email, instant messaging, web pages, digital photos, computers, cell phones, PDAs, online games, and social networking sites to intimidate and harass their victims.

Forms of cyberbullying can range in severity from cruel or embarrassing rumors to threats, harassment, or stalking. Teenagers and young adults are common victims, and cyberbullying is a growing
problem in schools.

How can you protect yourself?

• Be very careful where you post personal information.

Limit the number of people who have access to your contact information or details about your interests, habits, or employment.

• Avoid escalating the situation.

Responding to hostility is likely to provoke a bully and escalate the situation. Consider ignoring the situation.

• Document the activity.

Keep a record of online activities, including relevant dates and times, in addition to archiving an electronic version. Consider printing a copy.

• Report cyberbullying to the appropriate authorities.

If you are being harassed or threatened, report the activity to the local authorities. Good starting points are the local police department or FBI branch. Depending on the activity, it may also be appropriate to report it to school officials who may have separate policies for dealing with activities that involve students.

Game cyberbullies and griefers

Tips for dealing with griefers

1) Ignore them.
2) Change the game options.
3) Create a private game.
4) Play on sites with strict rules.
5) Play another game.
6) Report game glitches.
7) Play games that limit griefers.
8) Don’t fight fire with fire.
9) Avoid using provocative names.
10) Don’t give out personal information.

Questions or comments?
E-mail us at
eSecurity@state.de.us