This is Jonny.
Like every kid, he likes to spend his free time online. But except for opportunities, the internet has a lot of dangers to offer. That’s why we will give you more information about them.
With the help of Jonny we will show you the main types of cyberbullying* you need to know about, in order to warn your child.
If it turns out he already had such an experience, you can turn to the National Safer Internet Centre or local INHOPE association for advice or to send a report.
*The mentioned types of online harassment are based on true stories. The more you know about them, the more influence you will have on the scenario your kid participates in.
The Stolen Account
George copies a photo of Jonny and sets a fake account. Now he can easily connect with Jonny’s friends and relatives.
Pretending to be someone else gives George many options to harm Jonny’s reputation, send messages on his behalf, spread false rumors, etc.
Has this happened to you or someone you know?
The Fake Identity
Jonny has a chat with Maria online. But Maria’s account may be run by George. And George’s account - by a whole group of people.
The internet is full of options for creating fake profiles and sharing deceitful information. That’s why Jonny has to keep in mind that not everybody online can be trusted.
Has this happened to you or someone you know?
The Online Players
Jonny likes to play online games in his free time. It’s fun and it gives him an opportunity to chat with the people he plays with.
But communicating with random people can easily turn into a game with a real life result. Several players may unite against Jonny or just use their anonymity to insult him.
Has this happened to you or someone you know?
Group Bullying
Online harassment is often the work of several users. Peter, Martin and George can easily unite against Jonny and send him threatening and insulting messages.
The more, the scarier. Their number allows them to insult Jonny on many different levels and social networks.
Has this happened to you or someone you know?
The Collage (The Meme)
Everything Jonny shares online is a potential material for bullying. His Facebook “friends” can make all sorts of insulting collages and spread them on social networks.
A photo of his can even be turned into a “meme”. This is an idea/photo which spreads fast online and can be modified by adding insulting or humorous words/images.
Has this happened to you or someone you know?
The Open Profile
Jonny logs into his email or a favorite website. But the computer is public and he forgets to log out before leaving.
In this case it’s easy for someone to use Jonny’s account to send messages on his behalf. They can also share personal information, photos or other data.
Has this happened to you or someone you know?
The Screenshot
Jonny sends a message to Maria with some personal information. She makes a screenshot of it and shares it without Jonny’s knowledge. She can also use the information to manipulate him and spread rumors about him.
Jonny has a right to remain silent on the internet. But he forgets that everything he says can be used against him.
Has this happened to you or someone you know?
These are the main types of cyberbullying but you should be aware it takes many different forms. We advise you to speak to your child about the online dangers so you can prevent them in the future.