Cyberbullying is an intentional, repeated and unwanted negative behaviour act that is carried out by one or several people, using electronic devices and the Internet, against a victim.
Cyberbullying can be considered as different to bullying or just bullying that happens online. Cyberbullying can become a 24/7 offense, and the bully(ies) can hide their identities using anonymity to attack known victims.
There are different ways in which the power imbalance can be seen in cyberbullying.
In one way, victims can feel overpowered by cyberbullies using multiple technologies (e.g. setting up fake profiles on Facebook and targeting the same victim in WhatsApp groups).
In another way, cyberbullies can “continue” the bullying online with the use threatening and intimidation messages and encouraging others to join in.
Some methods of cyberbullying include; phone calls, text messages, emails, instant messaging (IMs), and direct messaging (DMSs), using text, picture or video and on social networks such as Instagram, Facebook, Tik Tok, Snapchat etc.
What Are Some of the Ways People Are Cyberbullied?
Exclusion
Indirectly sending a hurtful message to the victim to let them know that they are not welcome to participate or attend a event or deliberately not inviting them.
Flaming
Passionate online arguments often include vulgar language. Intended to assert power over the victim in a public forum.
Exposure
Includes public display, posting/forwarding personal communication, images and video from bully to victim.
Intimidation
Sending threatening messages or menacing remarks via cyber means.
Cyber-Harassment
Sending negative hurtful, pervasive, severe and persistent messages to someone.
Phishing
Tricking, persuading and manipulating the victim to disclose financial information.
Impersonation
Impersonating the victim and contacting the victim’s friends to damage the victims reputation.
Denigration ‘dissing’
Spreading rumours, gossip online about someone else.
Cyber-stalking
Includes monitoring the victim online, threats of harm, intimidation, and offensive comments.
Doxxing
Sharing personal data about the victim online against their will, such as their address, school they attend, or their phone number.
Fake Profiles
Setting up fake online profiles or accounts impersonating the victims to cause them harm.
Fraping
Posting inappropriate content tagging the victim or in public comments in their profiles to damage their reputation.
Outing
Openly revealing the victim’s gender identity or sexual orientation without their consent.