Cyberbullying

A guide to online bullying for parents and carers.

Cyberbullying of children is when someone uses online content or communication to seriously humiliate, seriously harass, seriously intimidate or seriously threaten a child or young person under the age of 18.

It can take many forms including sending abusive messages, hurtful images or videos, nasty online gossip, excluding or humiliating others, or creating fake accounts in someone’s name to trick or humiliate them. 

Online bullying can have a devastating impact on young people, whose online life is a key part of their identity and how they interact socially. 

On this page:

• I think my child is being bullied
• What to do if your child is being cyberbullied
• Advice for different age groups 

Targeted advice is also available for kids, young people or adults who may be experiencing online abuse.

I am worried my child may be bullying others

It is best to deal with any bullying behaviour as soon as possible, before it gets too serious or becomes a regular pattern. Good habits start young has some useful advice. 

I think my child is being bullied

Your child may not tell you if they are experiencing bullying behaviour online because of a fear it might make things worse for them or they may lose access to their devices and the internet. 

Signs to watch for

• being upset after using the internet or their mobile phone
• changes in personality, such as becoming more withdrawn,
  anxious, sad or angry 
• appearing more lonely or distressed 
• unexpected changes in friendship groups 
• a decline in their school work 
• changes in their sleep patterns 
• avoidance of school or clubs 
• a decline in their physical health 
• becoming secretive about their online activities and
  mobile phone use.

I think my child is being bullied

Your child may not tell you if they are experiencing bullying behaviour online because of a fear it might make things worse for them or they may lose access to their devices and the internet. 

Signs to watch for

• being upset after using the internet or their mobile phone
• changes in personality, such as becoming more withdrawn,
  anxious, sad or angry 
• appearing more lonely or distressed 
• unexpected changes in friendship groups 
• a decline in their school work 
• changes in their sleep patterns 
• avoidance of school or clubs 
• a decline in their physical health 
• becoming secretive about their online activities and
  mobile phone use.

For parents, carers and educators, navigating digital platforms and keeping up with changes may be frustrating and intimidating.  However, the e-Safety Commission is readily available to children and adults, providing useful resources and practical information that offers reliable advice for what can at times be perplexing and troublesome.  For all queries, please do not hesitate to contact the eSafety Commission directly or speak with your class teacher with any concerns.