Bullying / Internet Safety

Facts:

Cyber bullying is bullying. Just because its online or electronic doesn't mean its not bullying.
Bullies often use the internet as a way to humiliate or upset others, and to ruin self-esteem, relationships and reputations.
Everyday 160,000 children skip school because they are afraid of being bullied (National Education Association).
Bullying will usually stop within 10 seconds if someone else steps in (Hawkins, Pepler & Craig, 2001).

Cyber bullying can have the same effects as bullying. Cyber bullying can cause psychological harm such as low self-esteem, anger, poor academic performance, depression, and violence against self or others.
Cyber bullying is a hot topic among school administrators and law enforcement. New laws are being created to prosecute those who use the computer to bully.
If you are a victim of bullying, it can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems.
Bullying is a form of harassment. If you bully another person you might get expelled from school or arrested.

Examples of cyber bullying are: Spreading rumors online, sending threatening and aggressive emails or instant messages, posting embarrassing pictures, forwarding private emails or instant messages. If you are a victim, tell an adult!
Save the entry – do not delete it!
Contact law enforcement. Show the authorities any email, instant messages, text messages, or postings you have. Cyber bullying/stalking is harassment.
Bullying will continue unless you report it! Go to an adult you trust, take a friend with you.
Tell an adult you trust, such as a parent, teacher, school counselor, a relative, doctor, clergy member, or coach.

Ask your parent(s) to help set rules regarding the internet.
Set your profiles to “private” so you control who sees your information on the internet.
Ask your parent(s) to install software on the computer to protect your computer.
Avoid the bully by taking a different route to school, avoiding where the bullying takes place.
If the bullying does not stop after the first time you tell someone, don’t give up!