Let’s start with the basics.
Cyberbullying can be hard to define, not because the concept is overly complicated, but because every case is different. This can lead to uncertainty of how to respond when you or someone you love is on the receiving end. The Take Action Guide was created to meet this need and help point those experiencing cyberbullying in the right direction of how to respond. If you or someone you know is being cyberbullied, this is for you.
Harassment – repeatedly sending cruel, hurtful, threatening, or malicious messages to someone.
Extortion – taking something (often money or property) from someone using any kind of threat. Sextortion is a version of this that involves forcing sexual acts or threatening to make sexual content or actions public.
Cyberstalking – repeated and severe online harassment involving threats and inciting fear.
Trickery – tricking someone into sharing private information online and then sharing that information (secrets or personal details) with others.
Masquerading – when someone pretends to be someone else or posts false information, can also be called impersonation and include catfishing or creating fake accounts.
Hazing – forcing recruits or other individuals to complete extreme or exploitative demands online in exchange for acceptance.
Outing – revealing private information or secrets about someone online without their consent.
Flaming – sending mean, angry, or vulgar messages with the intention of starting a fight with someone online.
Dissing – sharing cruel messages or posts online with the intent to damage someone’s reputation or relationships, can also be called denigration.
Exclusion – intentionally excluding or leaving someone out of a group or conversation online.
