Combatting cyberbullies

Research shows that one in five Australian children are the victims of cyberbullying and last year cyberbullying was one of the most downloaded topics from our website. Children, young people and parents are searching for support.

HELP. COUNSELLING. SUPPORT.

As part of our focus on Safer Internet Day Kids Helpline has five top tips for combatting cyberbullies:

1. Don’t respond – Cyberbullies are looking for attention and in many instances are seeking a reaction from you so that they can continue the bullying. Remember it is not your fault. If you are being cyberbullied, don't engage and channel your energies into more positive activities.
2. Keep the evidence - Screenshot and keep copies of what gets said. Don’t keep them to re-read them. That’s not healthy. Forward them onto a parent or friend so that they can keep the evidence safe.
3. Block them - Change your privacy settings so they can’t see you. Block them so you can’t see them. Forget that they exist by removing their ability to be involved. If they start a new user account, block that one too. Bullies get bored easily when you don’t respond.
4. Report it - Help to reduce cyberbullying by reporting it. You are helping to make sure that these people aren’t treating anyone else badly. You are helping others. Your report in most social media platforms is confidential and can help to reduce their ability to annoy people in the future.
5. Speak to someone - Tell someone like a parent or teacher about it. This isn’t dobbing, it’s about letting someone know you are having a bit of trouble.

We will be posting tips about cybersafety all week on the blog. Stay tuned!

If kids and young people want to talk to someone they can call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or use email or web counselling services. No issue is too big or small.

Parents can visit the Hot Topics section on the Kids Helpline website for more tips on cyberbullying.

And don’t forget to subscribe to keep up to date with the latest yourtown news.

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