Cyberbullying Is About Behavior — Not Technology
Cyberbullying is not caused by technology itself.
It happens when digital tools are used to hurt, embarrass, exclude, or pressure someone.
Understanding cyberbullying helps you recognize unhealthy behavior early and respond in a way that protects your well-being.
Cyber awareness turns silence into clarity and action.
What Cyberbullying Can Look Like Online
Cyberbullying can take many forms, including:
repeated negative messages
public humiliation or teasing
spreading rumors or private information
mocking comments on posts
excluding someone intentionally
creating fake profiles to target someone
It can happen in messages, group chats, comments, games, or social media.
Real Situations Young People Encounter
Scenario 1: Group Chat Pressure
A student is part of a group chat.
Jokes slowly become personal.
Messages target the same person repeatedly.
What started as humor turns into harm.
Scenario 2: Public Comments That Hurt
A student posts something online.
Comments mock their appearance, opinions, or interests.
Even when meant as “jokes,” the impact feels real.
Scenario 3: Being Left Out on Purpose
A student notices they are removed from a group or ignored intentionally.
No explanation is given.
Exclusion becomes a form of bullying.
How Cyberbullying Affects People
Cyberbullying can impact:
confidence
emotional well-being
focus and learning
sleep
sense of belonging
The effects are real — even when the behavior happens online.
Cyberbullying Is Never the Victim’s Fault
No one deserves to be bullied.
Cyberbullying is about the choices of the person causing harm — not the person receiving it.
Recognizing this helps reduce self-blame.
What You Can Do If You Experience Cyberbullying
If you are targeted:
pause and don’t respond immediately
save evidence such as messages or screenshots
use block, mute, or report tools
talk to a trusted adult, teacher, or school staff
ask for support
You don’t have to handle it alone.
What You Can Do If You Witness Cyberbullying
If you see cyberbullying happening:
don’t encourage it
support the person being targeted
report the behavior when appropriate
avoid sharing harmful content
Standing up can be quiet and safe.
Setting Boundaries Helps Reduce Harm
Digital boundaries help protect you.
They include:
deciding who can contact you
leaving harmful conversations
muting or blocking accounts
adjusting privacy settings
Boundaries are acts of self-respect.
When to Ask for Help
It’s important to ask for help if:
the behavior is ongoing
you feel unsafe
your mood or sleep is affected
the situation feels overwhelming
Seeking help is a sign of strength.
Building a Culture of Respect Online
Healthy digital spaces are built when people:
communicate respectfully
accept differences
avoid harmful jokes
support one another
Everyone contributes to the culture.
Why This Matters
Cyberbullying affects:
mental health
education
relationships
digital confidence
Awareness helps prevent harm and encourages support.
How This Makes You a Cyber Hero
A cyber hero protects themselves and others.
By understanding cyberbullying and responding safely:
you set healthy boundaries
support respectful communication
seek help when needed
help create safer digital spaces
Awareness turns compassion into action.
Daniel Porta
Cybersecurity Professional | CISO
Founder, Be a Cyber Hero Initiative