Avoiding online bullies
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In the old days, bullies tended to be large, mean looking males, who know how to use their fists. These days, a cyberbully can be male or female, of any size and shape, and they only need enough strength to use a keyboard. To keep cyberbullies from ruining your child’s day, you and your child just need to exercise a little common sense.
- Don’t encourage anyone to use the Internet to bully someone.
- If you can’t say something nice about someone in an email, IM, chat room, or anywhere else on the Internet, then don’t say it at all.
- Don’t email or publish online any embarrassing photographs, videos, or audio recordings.
- If you know that someone is being bullied online, tell someone.
- Don’t send emails or other online messages that threaten a person.
- Don’t send emails or other online messages that use foul or abusive language.
- Don’t send or post angry messages online.
- Follow family rules about online behavior.
- Follow school rules about online behavior.
- If you receive a threatening or harassing message, tell someone, especially a teacher or parent.
Just remember, cyberbullying is an online risk that can’t be stopped by software or hardware. It can only be prevented by you.
Often there is a thin line between cyber bulling and cyber crime – for those interested in a career fighting crime there is a masters in criminal justice available online.
Podcast
Check out the Parenting and the Internet podcast for more about the book and the author.
Other 10 Tips Lists
Best Computer Accessories
Email Realities
Protecting Your Online Privacy
Dealing with Cyberbullies
Avoiding Online Predators