How to Report Cyberbullying in Bermuda
A side effect of modern technology is giving bullies new platforms to target victims. Cyberbullying is difficult to escape, as devices have become such a large part of everyday life. However, there are numerous ways that victims can get back control. Read on to find out more about cyberbullying and how to report it.
What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is online behaviour that threatens, harasses, or humiliates another person. This can happen through direct messages and calls, or through posts. There are many methods that bullies use, but common forms include deliberately sharing false information, sending threatening texts, and using AI to create embarrassing or disturbing content. It can even happen over gaming platforms.
Online bullying can impact any demographic, but teenagers are one of the most vulnerable groups, sometimes as a continuation of in-person bullying at school. The victim may know who the bully is, or they may hide behind an anonymous account. Either way, cyberbullying can have a severe impact on the mental health of victims, and has even led to suicide.
Due to the permanent nature of the internet, public forms of cyberbullying can have lifelong consequences for both the victim and the perpetrator. Potential employers, educators and loved ones may be impacted by your digital footprint.
Is cyberbullying illegal?
Cyberbullying is illegal, and is often classed as a serious crime. For example, many kinds of persistent cyberbullying constitute harassment, sharing incorrect information can be defamation, and it is illegal to send someone a death threat.
Cyberbullying that targets people for their sexuality, race, religion, gender, disability, or any other protected characteristic could be classed as a hate crime.
How to report cyberbullying in Bermuda
Report directly to online platforms
Many forms of harassment are against the terms of service of most social media platforms. By reporting a post, message or account, you may be able to get it taken down and prevent further bullying. Blocking, muting or restricting specific interactions can also stop cyberbullies in some instances.
Tell someone trusted
Cyberbullies often rely on shame to keep their victims quiet. Particularly if you are a teenager, telling a trusted adult can stop the bullying from going any further or help you decide further actions to take. Many schools have systems in place to handle cyberbullying, particularly if it takes place alongside in-person bullying.
Report cyberbullying to the police
If you are being harassed or threatened online, you should consider reporting it to the police. Make sure that you save evidence of the bullying. Screenshot as much as possible, and don’t delete any message threads. This will help the police to see what has been happening and aid their investigation.
Report crime anonymously
If you have information about a crime but don’t want the police to know who shared it, contact Crime Stoppers Bermuda. Our online form and phone line allow you to report information discreetly, without collecting or sharing personal details.
Use our online form or call 800-8477 to report crime anonymously
