The internet and cell phones have allowed new ways for bullies to intimidate and humiliate others. This is called “cyberbullying.” There are stories around the world about bullies preying on other people over the internet and through instant messaging. Some of the victims of cyberbullying committed suicide. I have also heard many stories from middle school and high school students in the Taraval Police District about being similarly victimized.
Although I have not heard of anyone committing suicide in San Francisco as a result of cyberbullying, there was a fifteen year-old girl in the Bay Area who killed herself after being taunted over the internet. This teenager went to a party, became drunk, and was sexually assaulted. Photographs were taken of her during the assault. These pictures were posted on the internet. As you can imagine, she became very distraught. To make matters worse, she was viciously harassed over the internet.
There is also a story of a thirteen year-old boy in Vermont who committed suicide after being repeatedly bullied over the internet. He was taunted as being gay and called “loser.” He became distressed and committed suicide.
I researched and found some helpful hints about stopping cyberbullying:
1). Be careful about posting pictures of yourself on the internet or having someone else post pictures of you on the internet. Once a picture is on the internet, it will stay forever.
2). If someone is bullying you over the internet, don’t respond. Try to “lock” that person out of your social media network.
3). Save taunting messages because they can be used as evidence later.
4). If you feel you’re a victim of cyberbullying, tell your parents, teachers, or any adult you trust.
5). There are social media websites that allow you to report cyberbullying. Do not be afraid to report what is going on. Use the saved messages to show you’re being bullied over the internet.
Remember, making credible threats over the internet or through instant messaging IS A CRIME!