Bullying in any form is dangerous. The growth of digital media has made it, even more, easier for the bullies to harm their targets. On this Stop Cyberbullying Day on 16 June 2017, we would like to bring awareness to our readers about how cyberbullying impacts the life of victims and some useful preventive measures to help oneself and others in staying safe from the devastating consequences of cyberbullying. Take a look:

As much as 10% of middle and high school students in a survey were found to have been encountered with hate terms used by others against them.

50% of young people were found to hide about the cyberbullying attacks that happen to them from their parents.

Amongst every 3 young individuals in a survey, more than 1 individual was found to have experienced some form of cyber threats online.

As much as 25% of adolescents and teenagers have experienced repeated bullying over their mobile phones or the Internet.

As fewer as only 1 in every 5 incidents of bullying is reported to the law enforcement.

Criticizing comments and hurtful rumors are some of the most common ways by which people are bullied.

Low self-esteem and social isolation are the two most common impacts of cyberbullying on victims. In worst case scenarios, victims even think or commit suicide as well.

With these eye-opening facts about cyber-bullying, practicing effective anti-cyberbullying measures is the need of the hour. Let’s take a look:

Promote Awareness: The first step towards change is awareness. Tell, share, discuss and do everything to bring awareness amongst people about cyberbullying. Exchange ideas and formulate strategies to help those who have been bullied and save others from becoming victims.

Report Authorities: If you have been experiencing bullying of any form or feel that someone is being tortured, then don’t try to hide/ignore things. Immediately report the concerned law authorities so that they can help the victim in getting out of the situation and charge the bully.

Be a Responsible Parent: As a parent, it is your duty to monitor your child’s online activities and his daily routine. Keep a close watch on how much time he spends browsing the internet, who all he meets outside, what websites does he visit on the internet, etc. However, use a parental control software to ensure that your monitoring activities remain secret from your child.

Online Bullying can lead to dangerous consequences like physical injury or mental illness, it is better to stay alerted and take appropriate action whenever bullying occurs. #STOPCYBERBULLYINGDAY