As more and more people are coming on the internet, the risk of cyber-bullying has significantly increased. As netizens of the new world, not only children but teenagers, as well as adults, need to know how to keep themselves safe from online bullying or fraud. The consequences of cyberbullying can be particularly severe on teenagers, who can slip into depression, anxiety or develop other mental health issues.
Cyber-bullying includes embarrassing, harassing, threatening, or targeting a person using any electronic means. It can be done in many forms, either by persistent messaging, spreading misinformation, putting personal photos or information on a public platform to harm anyone.
While the use of the online platform cannot be avoided altogether, we can be cautious and alert while using the internet. If you get bullied, remember it’s not your fault at all. There are a few easy tips that you can follow to be safe while being on the internet.
Make use of privacy settings on the platform
The key to being safe is sometimes provided by the platform itself. Social media, gaming, messaging or any search engine platform has a privacy policy setting so that you can choose to share the amount of information that is displayed on your account to the public view. Going through the privacy policy, you can also understand the types of information that the platform collects, as well as the security of that information. So whenever you sign up, take a well-informed decision.
Keep your private life private
While the internet is made to connect with people and share about your life, limit the information to the lowest possible extent. Be especially wary about any information that reveals about your residence, your phone number, your school/college that you go to, or your current location, etc. Don’t give any personal detail to a person you’ve never met in real life, but only connected with over the internet.
Keep a small friend list on social media
Even if you choose to share your information with your friend list only, go through it first. Add only those people in your friend list you know personally and have met. Even if you add people to expand your friend base, block them the moment you feel anything wrong about them.
Always check the recipient
Whenever sending anything through an email, or a message, always double-check the recipient. This applies not only to risky items such as documents but also to your personal photos. This will help you safeguard your data from going into unauthorized hands and getting misused.
Don’t share your passwords
While this may seem like a pretty common-sense tip, unfortunately, most people don’t keep it in mind. Even if it is for just a moment or a few, never share your passwords for any platforms with anyone. If you think anyone has a hold of it, change it as soon as possible and remove your personal data from the account, as well as contact the help center for that platform.
Don’t be afraid to report
If you see any activity in your account and suspect something, take instant action with the help of the platform you’re using. Don’t be afraid or ashamed about reporting it to the help center. In case your concern gets more serious, report it to the law-enforcement agencies that operate in your area.
It is important when we are so active on the internet to be aware of the rights and remedies available at our disposal. Take part in local awareness drives conducted by your educational institutes or offices and always be alert.
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