Cyberbullying and Digital Citizenship
Understand cyberbullying, its impacts, and how to be a responsible, ethical digital citizen.
Being a good digital citizen is not just about avoiding harmful behavior — it is about actively contributing to a healthier, more honest, and more respectful online environment.
Understanding Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is the use of digital technology to harass, threaten, embarrass, or target another person. Unlike in-person bullying, cyberbullying can be anonymous, can reach a large audience instantly, and can follow victims everywhere — there is no safe space.
- Harassment: Repeatedly sending offensive messages
- Doxing: Publishing someone's private information without consent
- Impersonation: Creating fake accounts to damage someone's reputation
- Exclusion: Deliberately excluding someone from online groups
- Cyberstalking: Persistent monitoring and harassment online
Responding to Cyberbullying
- Do not respond or retaliate — this often escalates the situation
- Document everything — screenshots with timestamps
- Block the person on all platforms
- Report to the platform and, if necessary, to school or law enforcement
- Talk to a trusted adult
When you witness cyberbullying, you have a choice. Bystanders who do nothing implicitly condone the behavior. Upstanders speak up, support the target, and report the behavior. Your action can make a significant difference.
Ready to test your knowledge?
3 questions · Grade 8 level