Cyber Bullying & Stalking

What is Cyber Bullying?

Cyber bullying may be defined as the use of online and digital technologies to hurt, ridicule, embarrass or inflict harm on others.

Who are Cyber Bullies?

Bullies are usually vocally abusive and persistent. They often gang up on their victims. Cyber bullies are those people who carry out such activities in cyber space.

The degree of abuse may be mild some cases, but in extreme cases it includes hate speeches, unwanted sexual innuendo or even threats to life.

Online, this is also known as flaming.

What is Cyber Stalking?

The act of following someone, or tracking their activities is called stalking. When this is done online, it is known as cyber stalking.

With the increase technology and its reaches, cyber criminals have become even more dangerous.

What are the threats?

Although cyber stalking affects individuals of all ages  and walks of life, women and children are biggest victims.

Cyber bullies may disclose their victims’ personal data on websites or forums, or may even commit online identity theft for the purpose of defaming or ridiculing their victims. Some cyber bullies send threatening and harassing emails and messages, or create rumours and gossip to instigate others against them.

Women receive obscene and abusive messages from cyber stalkers.

What are the risks?

Victims of cyber stalking have reported to be suffering from the following:

• Fear for safety
• Nightmares
• Sleeping disorders and change in eating patterns
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Shock and Disbelief