Summary
The internet is a great place to learn, play, connect, and share ideas. Unfortunately, it can also be a place where cyberbullying happens. Cyberbullying is bullying that occurs through text messages, social media, gaming platforms, emails, or other online spaces. It can affect kids, teens, and even older adults.
If you experience bullying online, remember that you are not alone. First, avoid responding to hurtful messages. Instead, save screenshots, block the person, and report the behavior on the platform. Keeping evidence can help if the situation needs to be reported to a parent, teacher, trusted adult, or platform administrator.
Kids and teens should talk to a trusted adult as soon as possible. Speaking up is not tattling—it is protecting yourself and others. Parents, teachers, and school staff can help create a safe environment where bullying is not accepted.
Older adults can also be targets of online harassment, scams, and cyber abuse. Staying cautious online, using privacy settings, and reporting suspicious behavior can help keep digital experiences positive and secure.
Most importantly, be an “upstander” instead of a bystander. If you see someone being bullied online, offer support and report the behavior when appropriate. Kindness is contagious—and together we can help make the internet a safer place for everyone.
Sources
- CDC Youth Violence Prevention: Bullying – https://www.cdc.gov/youth-violence/about/about-bullying.html
- StopBullying.gov – https://www.stopbullying.gov/
- SchoolSafety.gov Bullying & Cyberbullying – https://www.schoolsafety.gov/bullying-and-cyberbullying
- NORC Cyber Abuse Research Initiative – https://www.norc.org/research/library/majority-of-older-adults-experience-cyber-abuse-in-their-lifetim.html
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