Cyber Bullying

Boys are as likely as girls to be targeted for threats or efforts to humiliate them on the Internet.  Gender does not affect a child's online risk profile.

• Don't open/read messages from cyber bullies - Your child can't be intimidated by messages from cyber bullies they never open. Teach your child to curb his or her curiosity to read and respond to a message if they suspect or know a cyber bully has sent.
• Encourage your child to tell an adult - For some children, their reaction to being bullied is not only fright, but also confusion about how to react appropriately. Coach your child to tell a trusted adult if they are ever being bullied.
• Report cyber bullying - Internet Service Providers (ISP's) con often block a cyber bully, and schools have specific procedures and rules to handle bullying. Save the bully's message and screen name, then contract and report it.
• No chatting while angry - Sending angry, hostile or taunting message attracts cyber bullies. Make certain your child is not using e-mail messages or chat rooms to vent their own anger in a way that hurts others.
• If you are threatened with harm, tell the police - Even if you don't know how to identify the individual who has made the threat, law enforcement often has access to the information and may be able to track down and arrest them before they do more harm.
• Be part of your child's online experience - It can be a fun journey to explore the wonders of the Internet as a family. As computer-savvy as kids and teens are today they will certainly teach you a thing or two!