Cyber-bullying and Internet Safety

What is Bullying?

Intentionally causing harm to others Verbal harassment Physical assault Exclusion from a group Spreading rumors

Types of Bullies

Bully The main instigator of the

bullying action

Accomplice Someone who supports a bully

Bystander Someone who observes bullying

Cyber-bullying

Cyber-bullying is bullying using technology Prank calling Sending nasty text messages Posting embarrassing pictures Posting on hate sites Forwarding offensive emails

Talent Show –

an Anti Cyber-Bullying Commercial

Bullying vs. Cyber-bullying

The bully says something nasty and it's only heard when he or she says it

Cyber-bullying may be accessed forever.

The bully is known to the target The cyber-bully can stay anonymous

Bullying is face to face The cyber-bully is never in the

presence of target

Bullying vs. Cyber-bullying

Bullying happens during certain hours of the day

Cyber-bullying can be 24 hours/7 days a week

The bully is usually physically stronger

Physical strength is not required for cyber-bullies

Email Sending threatening emails or

intimidating someone

Social Networking Sites: Posting hurtful comments on

someone's profile

Chat / IM: Saying nasty things in chat and

instant messaging

Gaming: Ganging up on another player or

excluding them

Cyber-bullying across Devices and Services

Cyber-bullying across Devices and Services

Mobile Phones: Making prank calls, sending nasty

texts and photo messages

Webcams: Making people do things on

webcams that upset or embarrass them

Forums and Message Boards Ganging up on someone, excluding

someone, making hurtful comments

Effects of Cyber-bullying

On the Target Feeling embarrassed, scared, depressed Feeling sorry for yourself, wanting to

retaliate May stay away from school to avoid bully

On the Bully Doesn’t learn to compromise or

negotiate Doesn’t learn how to work together

On Bystanders and School Creates a climate of fear and disrespect Has a negative effect on learning

What can you do?

Report any cyber-bullying

Never respond/retaliate

Block the cyber-bullies

Don’t post any personal information

Save and print any bullying messages

Make a note of the dates and times

Use strong passwords and keep them private

Top Tips for Internet Safety

Don’t post stuff that is very personal

Don’t share your passwords

Don’t meet up with anyone you meet online

Respect other people’s views

Be careful when offered something for nothing

Never accept a gift that involves someone visiting your home.

Have fun...but use the internet safely!