Cyberbullying means inappropriate use of technology in order to harass and bully others. Internet, mobile phones, tablets, etc. have all been instrumental in improving our lives, but they also come with their own set of problems: cyberbullying is one of them. Basically, cyberbullying comprises any form of intended harassment, abuse, bullying or torture through the use of the Internet, cell phones or other such gadgets. In order to know how to deal with cyberbullying, one has to understand what it is exactly. In this article we will discuss cyberbullying and share some tips on how to deal with it.

Which is the most vulnerable group for cyberbullying?

It is seen that the most vulnerable group of people to be affected by cyberbullying are school going kids and college going teens. However, it is not limited to them alone; anyone anywhere can be a victim of cyberbullying. Putting up fake profiles of people on social networking sites in order to malign their name, posting compromised pictures and videos of people intended to ridicule them, and/or sending malicious messages in emails or text messages, etc. are all forms of cyberbullying. It can be done directly or indirectly. In direct cyberbullying, the identity of the bully is known while it remains anonymous in the indirect form.

How to deal with it?

Cyberbullying is a crime in the eyes of the law and there are laws meant to deal with such problems. If you have ever experienced this form of bullying, you will know that it can be really trying, depressing and at times devastating. That’s why it is important to know how to deal with it. Here are our tips to help you deal with cyberbullying:

1. The very first way to deal with it is to be indifferent. Cyberbullying hurts only when you take it to heart, retaliate and respond to it. Instead of doing any good, such steps actually make matters worse. So, if it is possible, ignore it. Sometimes people indulge in cyberbullying just for fun and when they get no response, they eventually stop bullying. But if the bullying doesn’t stop then you need to take some action. Seek the advice of an adult. Confide in your parents or teachers. If you know who the bully is, tell them about it. Parents and teachers will be better equipped to handle the situation.
    
2. If the bullying occurs via emails and text messages, then make sure that you do not delete any of them. Save them as evidence against the bully. If there is an email from the bully, report it to the Internet service provider. They can track it down, even if it is anonymous. If you are being bullied by mobile, try changing your mobile number. If the bullying takes a serious form, then it is advisable to get the help of the police. They can help you to track down the bully and get them punished appropriately.
    
3. You can also take measures in order to avoid getting cyber bullied. Firstly, never share your personal details like email, cell phone number, etc. on social networking sites or in any open online forum. Share your contact number with close and trusted friends only. Never share your passwords with anyone or give anyone access to your personal accounts and emails. Never forward a nasty message intended to malign someone’s name. Even though you did not start the cyberbullying of the person, by forwarding such messages to other people, you are becoming a part of it. Remember, cyberbullying is not a fun thing. The person who gets bullied may become mentally affected by it. They might feel depressed or have suicidal tendencies.
    

A person who knows ways to handle cyberbullying is better equipped to deal with it. Share these ways to deal with this form of bullying and help others as well.