Cyber harassment is a type of online abuse that involves the use of electronic communication to harass and threaten someone. It can take many different forms, including sending unwanted messages, posting hurtful comments or images, and even stalking someone online. In addition, cyber harassment can have a devastating impact on its victims, often leading to depression, anxiety and even physical violence. 

What To Look Out For

There are many different types of behavior that can be considered cyber harassment. Some common examples include:

• Sending unwanted messages or emails: This can include anything from spamming someone’s inbox with unsolicited messages to sending threatening or abusive emails.
• Posting hurtful comments or images: This can involve leaving negative comments on someone’s social media posts or website. This can also include sharing embarrassing or private photos or videos without consent, also known as revenge porn.
• Making unwanted sexual advances: This can involve sending sexually explicit messages or images or making lewd comments. This can also include propositioning someone for sex online.
• Stalking: This can involve repeatedly contacting someone online or monitoring their social media activity. Additionally, it can include showing up uninvited to their home or workplace.

Tips for Dealing with Cyber Harassment

If you are the victim of cyber harassment, it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are ways to deal with this type of abuse. Here are some tips for how to deal with cyber harassment:

• First, if you are worried about your safety or the safety of someone else in a dangerous relationship, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 for help.
• Then, document the abuse. Save any messages, emails, or images that you receive as evidence of the harassment. This can be helpful when you report the abuse to law enforcement or take legal action against the perpetrator.
• Next, block the harasser. If someone is cyber harassing you, block their email address, phone number, and social media accounts. This will help to stop the flow of abusive messages and protect you from further harm.
• After blocking the harasser, report the abuse. If someone is harassing you online, you can report it to the police. You can also report it to the website or social media platforms where the harassment took place.
• Finally, get support. Talk to a friend, family member or therapist about what you’re going through. It can be helpful to have someone to talk to who understands what you’re going through and can offer support.

Cyber harassment is a serious problem that can have a devastating impact on its victims. If someone is harassing you on the internet, it is important to remember that you are not alone and there are ways to deal with this type of abuse. By taking action and getting support, you can help to protect yourself from further harm.

Want to learn more about different types of cyber harassment? Visit our resource page.