For Parents: Internet Safety

INTERNET SAFETY - CYBERBULLYING

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place using electronic technology. Electronic technology includes devices and equipment such as cell phones, computers, and tablets as well as communication tools including social media sites, text messages, chat, and websites.

Examples of cyberbullying include mean text messages or emails, rumors sent by email or posted on social networking sites, and embarrassing pictures, videos, websites, or fake profiles.

Prevent Cyberbullying

Be Aware of What Your Kids are Doing Online

• Talk with your kids about cyberbullying and other online issues regularly.
   
• Know the sites your kids visit and their online activities. Ask where they’re going, what they’re doing, and who they’re doing it with.
   
• Tell your kids that as a responsible parent you may review their online communications if you think there is reason for concern. Installing parental control filtering software or monitoring programs are one option for monitoring your child’s online behavior, but do not rely solely on these tools.
   
• Have a sense of what they do online and in texts. Learn about the sites they like. Try out the devices they use.
   
• Ask for their passwords, but tell them you’ll only use them in case of emergency.
   
• Ask to “friend” or “follow” your kids on social media sites or ask another trusted adult to do so.
   
• Encourage your kids to tell you immediately if they, or someone they know, is being cyberbullied.  
   

Establish Rules About Technology Use

• Establish rules about appropriate use of computers, cell phones, and other technology. For example, be clear about what sites they can visit and what they are permitted to do when they’re online. Show them how to be safe online.
   
• Help them be smart about what they post or say. Tell them not to share anything that could hurt or embarrass themselves or others. Once something is posted, it is out of their control whether someone else will forward it.
   
• Encourage kids to think about who they want to see the information and pictures they post online. Should complete strangers see it? Real friends only? Friends of friends? Think about how people who aren’t friends could use it.
   
• Tell kids to keep their passwords safe and not share them with friends. Sharing passwords can compromise their control over their online identities and activities.
   

Model How to Treat Others with Kindness and Respect

Kids learn from adults’ actions. By treating others with kindness and respect, adults show the kids in their lives that there is no place for bullying. Even if it seems like they are not paying attention, kids are watching how adults manage stress and conflict, as well as how they treat their friends, colleagues, and families.

Report Cyberbullying

When cyberbullying happens, it is important to document and report the behavior so it can be addressed as soon as possible.

Steps to Take Immediately

• Don’t respond to and don’t forward cyberbullying messages.
   
• Keep evidence of cyberbullying. Record the dates, times, and descriptions of instances when cyberbullying has occurred. Save and print screenshots, emails, and text messages. Use this evidence to report cyberbullying to web and cell phone service providers.
   
• Block the person who is cyberbullying.
   

Report Cyberbullying to Online Service Providers

Cyberbullying often violates the terms of service established by social media sites and internet service providers.

• Review their terms and conditions or rights and responsibilities sections. These describe content that is or is not appropriate.
   
• Visit social media safety centers to learn how to block users and change settings to control who can contact you.
   
• Report cyberbullying to the social media site so they can take action against users abusing the terms of service.  
   

Report Cyberbullying to Law Enforcement

When cyberbullying involves these activities it is considered a crime and should be reported to law enforcement:

• Threats of violence
   
• Child pornography or sending sexually explicit messages or photos
   
• Taking a photo or video of someone in a place where he or she would expect privacy
   
• Stalking and hate crimes
   
• Some states consider other forms of cyberbullying criminal. Consult your state’s laws and law enforcement for additional guidance.

For more information:   http://www.stopbullying.gov/cyberbullying/index.html

Additional Helpful Websites for Parents & Students: