CYBER BULLYING

This means any bullying that occurs online and it includes:

- Chat Rooms -

- Forums -

- Instant Messaging -

 - Online Communities -

Webcams

- Emails -

The problem with this form of bullying, is that it is not restricted to the school or playground. It can follow the victim into their home and private world too.

"I don't know what to do. I can't get away from the bullies now. 

Even if I'm in my bedroom, they can get to me!"

"I've got someone emailing threats to me, but I don't know who it is."

TEXT BULLYING

This means any bullying that uses mobile phones and it includes:

SMS/EMS Text messaging

MMS Video Messaging

"Blue-Jacking"

 TEXTS

Don't respond to abusive texts (or online postings) Always ignore them.

Keep copies of all abusive texts and emails. they will be needed by the police or Service Providers when you make a complaint.

Only give your number to people you can trust and don't leave your mobile lying around.

CHAT ROOMS

Do not give out personal information, especially your age and location. Use a nickname that doesn't give anything away. Be very careful what you say in chat rooms. It's easy to cause offence because it's not always clear from words alone, how you are saying something.  Make full use of emoticons if available.

WEBCAMS

Only use your webcam with friends and family and use a program like MSN Messenger, which is private and only people you invite can see your cam.

NEVER use your cam in  chatrooms that allow video streaming, such as Yahoo, as you cannot easliy control who can see your broadcast.

BLUE-JACKING

This is when someone "hacks" into your mobile phone, by using Bluetooth, and leaves you messages or sends you photos. They can even see your own photos.

If you have a Bluetooth phone, you MUST make sure it is setup so that it is not visible to other Bluetooth users.

FORUMS

In a moderated forum, all messages are checked before being allowed.

Try to avoid un-moderated forums, where any abusive or obscene messages can be left.

If you find any such messages, send a copy to the forum provider

NEVER KEEP QUIET

Always report online and phone bullying, even (especially) if you know who's doing it.

Start by telling your parents and let them read the messages, even if this means allowing them to watch your conversations in a chat room - They need to know what you are going through.

Don't try to deal with this alone!