Cyberbullying is, unfortunately, one of the most common occurrences in this new digital era. The advancement of technology may have blessed us with the incredibly functional invention, the internet. This particular invention has the ability to bring everyone closer together despite the distance between them. It also has the ability to make our lives easier.
Gone are the days where we must spend hundreds of dollars to briefly talk on the phone with someone across the globe. With a click, we can now talk on the phone through VoIP or send a message directly to the recipient. All without having to spend a fortune! Not only that, with internet, we are now also able to do some shopping from the comfort of our own bedroom! What is not to love?
As good as this modern invention is, however, we cannot deny that internet also comes with a drawback. Such as with anything else in life, there is always a negative that comes with every good. Internet and all of its flexibility and advantages give the same amount of access to irresponsible individuals. Hence the existence of quite an extensive cyber threats over the years.
Understanding cyberbullying
Cyberbullying may not be a strange addition to the list. Bullying has become a part of life that many of our children sadly have to deal with. In the past, bullying came in the form of spreading hateful remarks, insults, and questionable rumors. At times, these bullies even resorted to violence. The impact of bullying has always been devastating, and now with internet access, bullying has taken turns for the worst.
This form of bullying may take place using modern gadgets such as tablets and smartphones. Occurring through emails, social media applications, instant messaging services, text messages and more, internet gives ways to cyberbullies to spread negativity. Internet’s accessibility makes it possible for them to post hateful messages, negative comments, spreading insults and rumors.
More than 30-percent of teenagers have to deal with cyberbullying on a daily basis. Despite the fact that it does not happen directly, the effects of cyberbullying is just as devastating. Not only does it cause stress and inferiority complex, very often it also leads to depression and suicide attempts. How do we, as parents, recognize cyberbullying and put an end to it before it leads to irreversible consequences?
How to avoid cyberbullying
When you deal with a cyberbully, simply save all evidences and restrict direct communication with the bully in question. Never respond to their messages as they are looking for reactions. By deleting and blocking them from contacts and messengers or social media accounts, you’ll minimize their chance of harassing your children.
Another important step is to improve the privacy setting. Flexispy has noted that by limiting the availability of your personal information, you will be able to eliminate chances of bullies to find your contacts. To do so, simply follow these steps:
- Never reveal personal details such as home address, phone number and others.
- Inform service providers of the bullying as it contravenes security policy.
- Report the bullying to school authorities.
Last but not least, use Flexispy tracking app to control your children’s social media uses. This application can be used as one of the protective measures to monitor your children’s online activity, calls and text messages.
