When AI technology first emerged, many who had seen movies like ‘I, Robot’ with Will Smith, likely thought these things were fictional. In such movies and TV shows, they often depicted AI in futuristic scenarios but something most of us were likely not would mimic real life…so soon. While AI offers incredible advancements and opportunities, it also presents challenges, particularly when exploited by bad actors. 

In the past, bullying was confined to schoolyards and face-to-face interactions, making it less visible. Today, cyberbullying can invade personal spaces such as social media, texts, and online gaming communities, highlighting the need for vigilance and proactive measures. 

This blog aims to empower you with tools and knowledge to recognize and combat cyberbullying. We’ll cover identifying signs of cyberbullying, whether you’re a victim or a bystander, and provide guidance on effective reporting. We also hope to inspire careers in cybersecurity, human resources, or online content monitoring. 

Teens and Cyberbullying: A 2024 Snapshot 

Did you know the World Health Organization did a survey on cyberbullying with over 279,000 teens (aged 11, 13, and 15) from 44 different countries? They found that in 2024, about 1 in 6 teens reported experiencing cyberbullying. Read more about the key findings from the official WHO report.

As educators, parents, and friends, it should raise concerns in realizing that cyberbullying is likely happening right under our noses. Understanding what cyberbullying is, is a great first step to stopping it. Cyberbullying encompasses a wide range of behaviors that occur through digital devices such as smartphones, computers, and tablets. It can take place via SMS, texts, apps, or online on social media, forums, and gaming platforms where users can view, interact with, or distribute content. Cyberbullying involves sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone. It may also include sharing personal or private information to cause embarrassment or humiliation. In severe cases, cyberbullying can escalate to unlawful or criminal acts. 

One recent and particularly new and harmful form of cyberbullying is doxing. Doxing occurs when someone maliciously reveals personal information about an individual online without their consent. This can include their real name, home address, phone number, email address, workplace details, and even financial information. The intent behind doxing is often to harass, threaten, or embarrass the targeted person, leading to real-world consequences like stalking, unwanted contact, or physical harm. 

 In the digital age, where much of our personal information is accessible online, cyberbullying has become a significant concern. There are several types of cyberbullying. We already discussed doxing. Let’s look at a few other ones:

1. Harassment: Repeatedly sending offensive, rude, and insulting messages. 
2. Denigration: Spreading false or malicious rumors, gossip, or misleading information to damage someone’s reputation. 
3. Impersonation: Pretending to be someone else to send or post material that makes them look bad, get them in trouble, or endanger them. 
4. Outing: Sharing someone’s secrets or embarrassing information or images online without their consent. 
5. AI Deep Fakes: Using artificial intelligence to create manipulated videos or images that appear real, often used to deceive or harm others. 
6. Cyberstalking: Using online platforms to repeatedly threaten or harass someone, causing them fear for their safety. 
7. Trolling: Deliberately posting provocative or offensive messages to elicit reactions and create conflict. 
8. Flaming: Engaging in online fights using aggressive and vulgar language. 
9. Catfishing: Creating a fake identity to deceive someone into an emotional or romantic relationship. 

Recognizing Signs of Cyberbullying

 Wondering if you or someone you know might be dealing with cyberbullying? Keep in mind that a wide range of reasons could lead to these behaviors, so it might be smart to seek help regardless of the cause. Here are some general things to look out for: 

• Mood Changes: Notice if using phones or computers suddenly makes you or your friend feel sad, anxious, or upset, like when someone sends mean messages or posts hurtful comments. 
• Avoiding Devices: If someone starts avoiding their phone or computer or seems nervous about messages they’re getting—maybe because someone keeps bothering them online. 
• Acting Different Online: Maybe you notice a friend deleting posts or changing their profile a lot. It could be because of mean stuff happening online—like people spreading rumors or making fun of them. 
• Feeling Bad Physically: Cyberbullying can make your body feel weird, like headaches or stomachaches, or make it hard to sleep—especially when someone is being mean to you online. 
• Not Enjoying Things Anymore: Is someone suddenly not into stuff they used to love? It could be because of what’s happening online—like if they’re getting picked on or left out in games. 
• Not Doing Well in School or Activities: If grades drop or they don’t want to go out like they used to, cyberbullying might be affecting them—maybe because they’re stressed out about what’s happening online. 
• Keeping Secrets About Online Stuff: If someone starts hiding what they’re doing online or seems shy about talking about it, it could be a sign they’re dealing with something they don’t want to share—like someone being mean to them. 
• Strange Money Stuff: Sometimes, cyberbullying can lead to weird things with money online. Watch out for that—like if someone’s trying to trick you into giving away your info or buying something you don’t want. 
• Scary Messages or Threats: Getting mean messages or threats online is serious. No one should have to deal with that, like if someone is threatening to hurt you or saying mean things over and over. 
• Less on social media: If someone suddenly stops posting or using social media much, they might be trying to avoid bad stuff happening online, like if they are tired of people being mean or spreading rumors about them. 

 Here is a call to action: Let’s commit to checking in with our friends more frequently.

If you notice any of these things happening to yourself or a friend, talk about it with someone you trust. It’s crucial to block or report anyone being unkind online and reach out to supportive adults. Remember, you don’t have to face it alone! If you’re a victim of online harassment, seeking help and support is essential. Here’s what you can do as soon as you recognize it: 

• Talk to Someone: Confide in a trusted adult, friend, or counselor who can provide emotional support and guidance. 
• Document: Save evidence like screenshots, messages, or emails that show the harassment. 
• Report: Use the appropriate reporting tools on social media and gaming platforms. 
• Use Support Resources: Use the resources from the organizations listed below or local advocacy groups which may offer resources and guidance specific to online harassment. 

Where to Report Cyberbullying and Get Help

When you or someone you know is experiencing online harassment or cyberbullying, it’s crucial to know where to turn for help and support. Here are some places you can report incidents: 

1. Social Media Platforms: Most platforms have reporting tools for harassment. Look for options like “Report Abuse” or “Report Post” within the app or website settings. 
2. Internet Service Provider (ISP): If the harassment involves emails or messages through your internet service, contact your ISP for assistance. 
3. Online Gaming Platforms: Gaming platforms provide reporting tools for inappropriate behavior during gameplay. Check the platform’s support section for guidance. 
4. School or Workplace: If the harassment involves someone from your school or workplace, inform a teacher, counselor, or HR department. They can provide support and take appropriate action. 
5. Law Enforcement: For serious threats, stalking, or illegal activities, consider reporting to local law enforcement. Save evidence like screenshots to assist their investigation. 

There are online resources that offer a range of support, information, and strategies to help navigate and respond to cyberbullying effectively. Whether to look for advice on prevention, dealing with incidents, or seeking emotional support, these websites provide valuable resources to address cyberbullying issues. Here are some valuable resources: 

• StopBullying.gov: Managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, StopBullying.gov provides information on cyberbullying prevention and intervention strategies. It offers resources for students, parents, educators, and community members. 
• Cyberbullying Research Center: This organization provides research, resources, and practical advice to combat cyberbullying. Their website includes tips for students on how to respond to cyberbullying and steps to take if they’re being targeted. 
• Common Sense Media: Common Sense Media offers resources for parents and educators to teach students about digital citizenship, online safety, and how to handle cyberbullying situations. They provide age-appropriate content and tips for children of different age groups. 
• ConnectSafely: ConnectSafely offers advice and resources on various aspects of internet safety, including cyberbullying. Their guides and articles provide practical tips for students on staying safe online and dealing with cyberbullying incidents. 
• NetSmartz: Operated by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), NetSmartz provides educational resources for students, parents, and educators on internet safety, including cyberbullying prevention and response. 
• Cybersmile: Cybersmile is an organization dedicated to tackling all forms of digital abuse and cyberbullying. They offer support for victims, advice for parents and educators, and educational resources for students. 
• PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center: PACER provides resources and support for students, parents, and educators on bullying prevention, including cyberbullying. They offer classroom activities, toolkits, and advice on creating a positive school climate. Additionally, you can pledge to take a stand against cyberbullying through their initiative. 

Joining the Frontline Against Cyberbullying

Creating a safer online and workplace environment means standing up against cyberbullying. Many companies are serious about this and rely on moderators and communication experts. These professionals make sure that online communities and workplaces are safe and friendly. They act like referees online and at work, quickly dealing with bullying and bad stuff while keeping everything positive. Their problem-solving skills help keep things smooth and happy. 

Interested in a career in online moderation, cybersecurity, or HR communications? These roles are crucial for creating friendly online communities and respectful workplaces where everyone feels valued. As an online moderator, you’ll learn to enforce rules fairly, solve problems calmly, and encourage good interactions. This career path improves your communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills while making a real difference online and in offices. To prepare for such a career, think about taking classes like: 

• Communication Studies: Learn how to talk well, handle problems, and solve disagreements. 
• Psychology: Gain insights into human behavior and motivations, which is essential for understanding community dynamics and team collaboration. 
• Media Studies: Learn about digital communication and online life. 
• Business Management: Get good at leading and planning in organizations. 
• Computer Science: Learn tech skills for programming, data, and keeping things safe online. 

Want to explore careers in online moderation, cybersecurity, or HR communications? Start by searching for jobs with keywords like: 

• Online Moderator – Average salary: $35,000 – $50,000 per year 
• Community Manager – Average salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year 
• Content Moderator – Average salary: $35,000 – $55,000 per year 
• Social Media Moderator – Average salary: $35,000 – $50,000 per year 
• Cybersecurity Analyst – Average salary: $75,000 – $110,000 per year 
• Cybersecurity Specialist – Average salary: $85,000 – $120,000 per year 
• Information Security Analyst – Average salary: $80,000 – $115,000 per year 
• HR Communications Specialist – Average salary: $55,000 – $75,000 per year 
• Employee Communications – Average salary: $55,000 – $75,000 per year 
• Internal Communications Specialist – Average salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year 

The salary ranges provided are based on industry averages from various job market sources, such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Glassdoor, and Payscale. However, these ranges can fluctuate based on factors like geographic location, years of experience, and specific company policies.