06 May 2021
Cyberbullying
What does cyberbullying look like? Cyberbullying behaviour might include:
- abusive texts and emails
- hurtful messages, images or videos
- imitating others online
- excluding others online
- humiliating others online
- spreading nasty online gossip and chat
- creating fake accounts to trick someone or humiliate them
Signs to watch for
Children may not always tell adults about cyberbullying through fear they may overreact and make the situation worse. Watch for these signs:
- being upset after using the internet or their mobile phone
- changes in personality, becoming more withdrawn, anxious, sad or angry
- appearing more lonely or distressed
- unexpected changes in friendship groups
- a decline in their school work
- changes in their sleep patterns
- avoidance of school or clubs
- a decline in their physical health
- becoming secretive about their online activities and mobile phone use
How to report and block
Making a complaint to the social media company Social media community standards outline how to behave on social media. They discourage the use of a service to harass or bully others or act in other ways that are anti-social or illegal. The eSafety Guide has links to help users report abusive content on a variety of services, games and apps. It also has other handy online safety information, like how a user can block someone from contacting them.
Reporting to eSafety
The cyberbullying team at eSafety helps with the removal of cyberbullying material. Even in cases where we are unable to remove material, we can offer advice, assistance and resources. Research shows that students who have had an information session are more likely to report abuse. We recommend all students attend an information session explaining how to report cyberbullying
Get help and support
Kids Helpline - 5 to 25 year olds. All issues. Confidential phone counselling available all day, every day. Online chat available 24/7, 365 days a year. 1800 55 1800
The eSafety Guide for apps - www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide Learn about the latest games, apps and social media, including how to protect your information and report inappropriate content. More are frequently added.